IG KP Instructs Police to Stay Apolitical
Inspector General of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Akhtar Hayat Gandapur, has issued clear instructions to regional police officers (RPOs) to avoid any involvement in political activities. This directive follows concerns over the potential misuse of police personnel during the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) planned protest on November 24.
A formal letter from the IG to RPOs emphasized the importance of maintaining political neutrality, advising officers against participating in political events or supporting any political agenda.
Chief Secretary’s Warning to Provincial Officials
KP Chief Secretary Nadeem Aslam Chaudhry also issued a warning letter to the provincial administration and police, underscoring their obligation to act within the constitutional framework. The letter, addressed to the IG, provincial secretaries, commissioners, and police officers, instructed government functionaries to avoid supporting any political party or activity, either directly or indirectly, using personal, departmental, or state resources.
The chief secretary highlighted the need for impartiality, stating:
“Our allegiance is to the Constitution and the State, not to any political party or leader.”
Interior Ministry Alerts KP Government
The Ministry of Interior also reminded the KP provincial government to ensure state resources are not misused. A letter addressed to the KP Chief Secretary warned against the use of government machinery, equipment, personnel, or finances for political purposes, especially during the upcoming protest.
Stern Reminder to Uphold Public Trust
In his letter, the chief secretary reiterated the duty of public servants to serve without bias or prejudice. He warned that any deviation from constitutional responsibilities would lead to severe legal consequences and tarnish the image of public service.
“You are expected to observe a professional code of conduct and uphold political neutrality at all costs,” the letter stated, stressing the importance of maintaining integrity and justice.
Concerns Over State Machinery Misuse
The directive comes amid reports suggesting that the KP government, led by the major opposition party, might use state resources, including Rescue 1122 vehicles, for PTI’s planned protests. Allegations have also surfaced that KP officials were involved in previous PTI demonstrations, with some personnel reportedly arrested for their participation in the October protest at D-Chowk, Islamabad.
These officials were later released and received a warm reception from KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur. The federal government has accused the PTI-led KP administration of deploying state machinery and personnel for political purposes in past protests.
PTI’s Nationwide Protest Call
PTI founder Imran Khan, currently imprisoned since August, has called for nationwide protests against alleged electoral rigging, the arrests of party workers, and the passage of the 26th Amendment. Speculations suggest the upcoming protests could escalate into a sit-in, prompting concerns over potential disruptions and the misuse of state resources.
The KP administration’s recent directives aim to ensure political neutrality and safeguard the public trust amid escalating political tensions.
