CM Gandapur: No Space for ‘Good Taliban’ in KP

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has announced a decisive move to remove the so-called “Good Taliban” from the province, declaring that their presence will no longer be tolerated.

Stance Announced at APC in Peshawar

Speaking at the All Parties Conference (APC) held in Peshawar, Gandapur voiced serious concerns over the region’s security and criticized federal policies. He made it clear that the province will not permit any further military operations.

“Today, I acknowledge that ‘Good Taliban’ do exist in the province. We have now decided to eradicate their presence. Anyone seen carrying weapons under the name of any institution will face immediate action—whether an individual or a group. The concept of ‘Good Taliban’ is now over and will no longer be tolerated.”

Criticism of Military Operations and Drone Strikes

Gandapur strongly criticized past military actions, saying they harmed the province and failed to produce meaningful results. He also condemned drone strikes in civilian areas.

“Such operations in civilian areas have resulted in the loss of innocent lives and will no longer be allowed.”

Allegations Against State Institutions

The CM alleged that certain state institutions had supported extremist elements in the past. However, he stressed that KP will not tolerate this anymore.

“They must be eliminated and removed from the province immediately.”

Steps for Local Security and Policing

To strengthen local peacekeeping, the APC resolved to recruit 300 locals into the police force in each tribal district.

Border Security and Resource Control

Gandapur sent a clear warning to the federal government, stating that if the centre fails in securing borders, the province will act using its own police.

He also asserted that KP holds full authority over its mineral resources and rejected federal involvement in this domain.

Opposition to Federal Taxes in Tribal Areas

The CM opposed the imposition of federal taxes in tribal regions, vowing that the provincial government will not support such decisions.

In closing, Gandapur stated:

“No federal force will be allowed to operate in the province without first taking the provincial government into confidence.”