PESHAWAR — Newly elected Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi on Monday dismissed claims that he became CM through favoritism, saying he was not chosen on any “parchi.”
In his maiden address to the provincial assembly after his election, Afridi expressed gratitude to former CM Ali Amin Gandapur for his leadership and service. “Gandapur submitted his resignation twice, and both times the Governor raised objections. We pay tribute to him for announcing it openly on the Assembly floor,” he said.
Rejecting suggestions that he was a “selected” leader, Afridi stated, “I did not become CM through any parchi — I earned this position through hard work.”
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He emphasized the need to reduce inequality, saying, “We must bridge the gap between the rich and the poor and eliminate the economic divide in our society.”
Proudly identifying himself with the tribal belt, Afridi said, “I am proud to come from the tribal districts — I am first a Pakistani and then a Pashtun.”
Reflecting on his journey, he added, “I have no political background. My name is not Zardari, Bhutto, or Sharif — I reached this position through dedication and struggle.”
Calling himself “a champion of protest politics,” Afridi asserted that he was not driven by power. “I have nothing to lose and nothing to fear,” he said.
The Chief Minister pledged to prioritize the development of tribal areas and assured PTI supporters that he would begin efforts for the release of Bushra Bibi and detained party workers.
Afridi said he accepted the challenge of leadership in difficult times, promising to work tirelessly for the province’s stability and prosperity.