KARACHI: In light of recent criticism over his three-day visit to Karachi, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi is scheduled to return to the city on Thursday.
Sources indicated that the purpose of Afridi’s upcoming trip is to pay respects to the family of Bilal Mahsood, a PTI supporter who tragically lost his life during a rally led by the KP chief minister.
Mahsood fell from his motorcycle while participating in the rally as it passed over the Lyari Expressway. He was rushed to a hospital immediately but succumbed to his injuries the following day after being under treatment for a brief period.During his visit, Afridi plans to visit Mahsood’s residence in UC-1 Seven Star Town, Ganna Mandi neighborhood of Sohrab Goth. After offering condolences, he is expected to leave Karachi and return to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Earlier, on Monday, Sindh’s senior minister Sharjeel Memon accused PTI supporters of attempting to recreate violent scenes similar to those seen on May 9 in Karachi during Afridi’s visit. Afridi’s recent trip to Karachi drew criticism because he traveled despite concerns over security. In a media statement, Memon claimed that provincial minister Nasir Shah had extended full cooperation, including logistical support and manpower, for the rally. Despite this, Memon alleged, efforts were made to incite violence akin to the May 9 incident, with PTI supporters reportedly pelting police with stones, vandalizing media vehicles, and attacking journalists—including women reporters. Several police personnel were injured in the clashes.
Memon emphasized that the Sindh government exercised restraint and did not file cases against PTI leaders despite the unrest. He accused PTI supporters of using unauthorized routes and engaging in divisive politics and inflammatory rhetoric during the rally.
He also revealed that a security threat had been received prior to Afridi’s visit. The Sindh authorities chose not to disclose this threat publicly to prevent panic but did inform the KP government and advised against visiting certain sensitive locations. Despite the warnings, Afridi visited District South in Karachi, contrary to security arrangements that had been discussed. Memon criticized this move, stating it breached protocol and the commitments made beforehand.
The following day, Afridi traveled to Hyderabad, where security measures were maintained. However, Memon alleged that the KP delegation did not adhere to the designated routes shared by local authorities, leading to severe traffic congestion on a major arterial route used by heavy vehicles.
Memon further accused the KP delegation of making unfounded allegations against the Sindh government, including claims of deliberately being trapped in traffic, despite the breaches of protocol.
Regarding political rallies, Memon clarified that permission had been granted to PTI for their event. He noted that areas such as Bagh-e-Jinnah and the Quaid-e-Azam Mausoleum fall under trust management, and PTI’s decision to not hold the rally within the designated grounds was seen as suspicious, indicating potential ulterior motives.
