KP Chief Minister Sohail Afridi Arrives in Karachi for Three-Day Visit
On January 9, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister Sohail Afridi landed in Karachi to commence a three-day visit as part of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) street mobilisation campaign. He was warmly received at the Karachi airport by Sindh Labour Minister Saeed Ghani, who presented him with traditional Sindhi cap and Ajrak, symbolizing Sindh’s rich cultural heritage. PTI supporters gathered in large numbers to welcome the chief minister, whose convoy later proceeded to Sharea Faisal amid enthusiastic slogans in support of party founder Imran Khan.
Engagement at Karachi Press Club and Reflection on Sindh’s Political Legacy
Later that evening, Afridi reached the Karachi Press Club, where he engaged with the city’s journalist community. Comparing his experience in Karachi to his recent visit to Lahore, Afridi expressed that the reception in Karachi was notably warmer. During his informal discussion with the media, he highlighted the enduring legacy of democratic traditions in Sindh, referencing the contributions of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and Benazir Bhutto.
PTI’s Preparations and Police Allegations
- PTI spokesperson Mohammed Ali Bozdar alleged that police removed tents erected for Afridi’s reception outside the party’s Karachi headquarters near the nursery area. However, he confirmed that the office itself was not sealed.
- Earlier PTI social media posts had claimed that Sindh police dismantled a welcoming camp and sealed the Insaf Secretariat, claims denied by officials who assured that tents would be reinstated and the party would be permitted to hold gatherings without causing road blockages.
- No immediate response was received from the police regarding these allegations.
Upcoming Events and Rallies During Afridi’s Sindh Visit
Afridi announced plans to hold a major gathering on Sunday at 4:30 p.m. at Mazar-i-Quaid, describing it as potentially the largest rally in Karachi’s history. He urged public participation to support PTI’s street movement aimed at advocating for the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan.
Authorities in Sindh, through statements from Local Government Minister Nasir Hussain Shah, have agreed to allow the rally while emphasizing that any public event must conform to law and order requirements. Though permission was granted for rallies in South and Korangi districts, a request for a gathering in Qayyumabad was denied citing traffic congestion concerns.
Scheduled Meetings and Further Engagements
- During his visit, Afridi will meet PTI leadership, legal professionals, business community members, and is expected to hold talks with Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah.
- On January 10, Afridi plans to visit Hyderabad, where the Sindh United Party’s Syed Zain Shah intends to welcome him in Jamshoro.
- Activities in Hyderabad include street protests, gatherings at Insaf House, engagements with journalists, intellectuals, farmers, and an address planned at the High Court Bar Association (HCBA).
Controversy Over HCBA Address
While the HCBA’s General Secretary Israr Hussain Chang invited Afridi to address the association, praising his stances on constitutional and environmental issues, the HCBA’s executive committee later clarified they had neither approved the invitation nor the CM’s visit. The committee stated the letter was issued without consent and did not represent the association’s official position.
Incidents in Hyderabad and Security
PTI Hyderabad spokesperson claimed police conducted raids targeting elected union committee chairpersons and party activists, although no arrests occurred. Hyderabad Senior Superintendent of Police Adeel Chandio confirmed no detentions were made during these operations.
Background and Context
Afridi’s visit comes amid PTI’s intensified street mobilisation efforts in Sindh, aimed at rallying support for the release of the party’s imprisoned leader, Imran Khan. The chief minister previously faced challenges during a recent visit to Lahore and subsequently addressed a letter to Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz expressing concerns about the treatment he received.
