MARDAN, September 16, 2026: Qaumi Watan Party (QWP) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chairman Sikandar Hayat Khan Sherpao has expressed concern over what he described as the province’s worsening political, economic and law-and-order situation, citing inflation, unemployment and insecurity among the major challenges facing residents.
Sherpao made the remarks while speaking to the media team of Bakhshali Press Club after offering Fateha at Bakhshali over the death of the brother of QWP Mardan district Information Secretary Muslim Jan. His comments are consistent with concerns he has raised in recent months about security, inflation, unemployment and governance in the province.
Sherpao Criticises KP Government
Sherpao criticised the performance of the provincial government, saying that despite a prolonged period of rule by the same political party, public problems had not been adequately addressed.
He particularly raised concerns about security incidents and terrorism in southern and merged districts, alleging that the provincial government had not done enough to protect residents.
He also questioned the attention given to political activities outside the province compared with efforts to address law-and-order issues and other public concerns within KP.
Sherpao has made similar criticism previously, including in July when he attributed worsening security, unemployment and public-service challenges to what he described as governance and administrative failures.
Calls for Long-Term Economic Policies
Speaking about Pakistan’s wider economic situation, Sherpao said the country needed sustainable, long-term economic policies.
He criticised reliance on additional taxes and levies, including those affecting petroleum products, as well as borrowing and conditions associated with International Monetary Fund programmes. He called for the development of alternative sources of government revenue.
Sherpao also said political and economic stability should be prioritised and called on political parties to work toward a common economic charter to support longer-term policymaking.
Sherpao Calls for Transparent Elections
Commenting on proposed September marches by Jamaat-e-Islami and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, Sherpao said political stability was necessary for the country.
Regarding the QWP’s role in future elections, he called for what he described as genuine and transparent elections and said state institutions should operate within their constitutional limits.
He also urged QWP workers to raise the concerns of people facing inflation, unemployment and other socioeconomic difficulties.
The QWP leader said his party would continue its political efforts concerning the rights of people in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, peace and development in the province.