Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi has blamed repeated statements by the provincial government for the recent evacuation of residents from Tirah Valley.
During a visit to Bara tehsil, where displaced families have arrived, Kundi said winter migration from Tirah usually reaches about 20 percent. This year, however, it jumped to 50–60 percent. He attributed the increase to fears of a military operation.
“People left their homes because repeated statements suggested an operation might take place,” Kundi said. “When they reached Bara, they realized the situation was different. This shows the provincial government’s failure and weakness.”
The governor said the KP government issued a “barrage of statements” that forced residents to leave. Normally, evacuated families stay with host families during winters. This time, many are living in tent villages due to panic.
Kundi emphasized that whenever military operations are planned, official announcements are issued, and proper preparations are made to ensure public safety.
KP Opposition Leader Ibadullah Khan of PML-N accompanied the governor. He said their visit aimed to assess the situation on the ground and meet the people affected by the evacuation.
“These are our people, and it is our duty to see the challenges they face,” Khan said. He criticized Chief Minister Sohail Afridi for politicizing important issues.
The governor invited CM Afridi to engage with the federal government to resolve problems in KP. He noted that the PPP, as part of the federal coalition, could facilitate discussions for the welfare of Tirah residents.
Kundi also criticized PTI for engaging with militants while avoiding dialogue with federal authorities. He praised security personnel and locals who are maintaining law and order despite difficulties in southern and merged districts.
He urged the provincial government to focus on governance reforms, peace, and development. “People request help for medical treatment and other needs, yet the government remains unmoved,” Kundi said.
