Gandapur Snubbed: KP Government Condemns Exclusion from SIFC Meeting
Islamabad: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has expressed strong displeasure after Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur was not invited to an upcoming Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) apex committee session. The meeting, scheduled for May 25, 2024, will be attended by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and top officials from various ministries.
KP Government’s Accusation of Bias
KP government spokesperson Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif denounced the federal government’s decision, accusing it of “biased moves” and “pushing the country towards provincialism.” He stated that the province would not tolerate any decisions impacting its fate and natural resources without the involvement of Chief Minister Gandapur.
Saif’s remarks echoed those of Advisor to KP CM on Finance, Muzzammil Aslam, who condemned the exclusion as a “malicious act” and an “insult to the public mandate.” He criticized the SIFC for failing to attract significant investments to the country over the past year and a half.
CM Gandapur Warns of Reaction
Earlier this month, Chief Minister Gandapur had warned the federal government of a strong reaction if it failed to provide a concrete timeline for addressing KP’s core issues, including outstanding dues, additional taxes, promised funds for law enforcement, load shedding, and special funds for tribal areas.
Invitation Issued, CM Confirms Attendance
Despite the initial exclusion, Chief Minister Gandapur has since confirmed that he will attend the SIFC meeting. “Yes, surely I will represent my province in the SIFC meeting,” he stated.
Subheadings:
* KP Government Condemns Exclusion
* KP Government’s Accusation of Bias
* CM Gandapur Warns of Reaction
* Invitation Issued, CM Confirms Attendance