Announces Grand Tribal Loya Jirga for Saturday, plans to introduce legislation providing for legal action for drone damage
Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi addresses the provincial assembly session on Thursday, calling for an end to drone strikes. SCREENSHOT
The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Assembly on Thursday unanimously passed three bills as Chief Minister Sohail Afridi appealed for cross-party cooperation to stop drone strikes in terror-hit areas.
The session, chaired by Speaker Babar Saleem Swati, saw the passage of the KP Assembly Powers, Privileges and Immunities (Amendment) Bill, 2026, as well as two related bills governing salaries and allowances of Speakers and members.
Law Minister Aftab Alam presented all three, incorporating an amendment from Pakistan People’s Party leader Ahmed Kundi.
President Swati said the moment was a turning point in the history of the province.
“Constitutional requirements delayed since 1973 have been fulfilled,” he said. “This assembly has accomplished in two years what could not be achieved in the last 50 years.”
He thanked the Speaker of the National Assembly, Ayaz Sadiq, and his own team for modernizing the rules which have remained unchanged since 1974.
Read: KP Jirga rejects drone strikes, announces emergency meeting
However, the busiest moment of the session came when CM Afridi spoke against drone strikes. “For three days, drones flew over my house,” he revealed. “Every time I announce a visit to Punjab or plan a rally, the attacks start. »
He acknowledged legal constraints, noting that he could not file suit against drone strikes because of constitutional protections. He has, however, announced plans to introduce legislation allowing legal action for damage caused by drones.
“When civilians are injured by drones, I receive messages saying ‘I’m sorry’ and ‘That’s unfortunate’ – simple words are not enough,” he said.
Reciting poetry in the gathering, CM Afridi said he did not fear difficulties or challenges. “The real test is bringing the ship ashore in adverse conditions,” he said, promising to guide the province through crises despite all obstacles.
Afridi argued that drone strikes did not reduce terrorism but instead fueled it. “Innocent citizens, especially children, are being targeted, sparking grief, anger and a desire for revenge among the population,” he warned.
Announcing a grand tribal Loya Jirga for Saturday, the chief minister sought opposition support for a joint action plan. “I will continue to raise my voice for the rights of the people of this province, even if it costs me my seat or my life,” he promised.
Speaker Swati concluded by emphasizing that legislation remained the exclusive constitutional jurisdiction of the Assembly.
“The courts can only interpret. No restrictions can be placed on this power,” he said, cementing what many called a defining session for KP’s parliamentary future.
