Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has issued a stern warning to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, saying his position could be “under threat” after Afridi announced plans to form a volunteer group dubbed the “Imran Khan Release Force” to campaign for the release of former prime minister Imran Khan.
Asif, addressing reporters in the federal capital on Thursday, said the proposed formation of any such force would be “unconstitutional and illegal” and warned that Afridi could face consequences if he pursued the plan without proper approvals. The defence minister emphasised that only the federal government has the authority to establish official forces, and that provincial leaders do not have jurisdiction to form paramilitary or armed bodies.
The warning escalates ongoing tensions within Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) after Afridi made the announcement last week without consulting senior party leadership. Afridi had said the force would consist of volunteers who would mobilise public support for Khan’s release, but he later clarified that it was not intended to be an armed group.
Asif said such initiatives set a dangerous precedent and undermine the constitutional framework. He stressed that “the constitution should be respected by all public office holders,” adding that any attempt to create an unauthorised force could lead to legal action. The defence minister also said that Afridi’s continued tenure as chief minister could be in jeopardy if he failed to align with party policies and legal parameters.
The development has set off alarm within PTI ranks, with some party insiders expressing concern that the matter could deepen internal divisions. Several senior party leaders have already called for calm and advocated focusing on parliamentary strategy rather than street mobilisation.
Political analysts say the confrontation highlights broader strategic disagreements within PTI over how to respond to Imran Khan’s legal battles and imprisonment. Afridi has been one of Khan’s vocal supporters, frequently urging strong public pressure for his release. Critics, however, say such moves risk conflict with institutional norms and could weaken the party’s political standing.
The federal government’s warning also comes amid broader debate over political protests and pressure tactics, especially during the holy month of Ramadan, when parties have been urged to exercise restraint.
As the political standoff unfolds, observers say the PTI leadership may be forced to reassess its strategies to avoid further alienating institutional partners and risking legal complications for its office-holders.
Originally Published By: Geo News
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