By Sudhir Ahmad Afridi
PESHAWAR: Amir Haider Khan Hoti, senior leader of the Awami National Party (ANP) and former chief minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, has warned that war and negotiations cannot proceed simultaneously, urging political actors to review their approaches.
Speaking at a rally in Mardan, Hoti highlighted growing unrest in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and criticized Pakistan Tehreek‑e‑Insaf (PTI) leader Sohail Afridi for statements about expanding influence in Punjab and Sindh. “The focus should first be on extinguishing the fire of terrorism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa,” he said, questioning why the PTI consistently entrusts the province’s protests to the Pashtun community.
He also addressed provincial leadership, asking why Chief Minister Pervez Elahi feels the need to focus on protests in Punjab rather than addressing local issues.
Hoti emphasized that political parties must be on the same page given the current security situation, and cautioned that PTI’s approach has eroded tolerance and patience in politics. “War and dialogue cannot proceed together; a reassessment of attitudes is essential,” he said, calling for unity and measured strategies to address both security and governance challenges.
