The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has resolved to create a vigilance cell dedicated to overseeing the political activities of government employees. This initiative aims to enforce regulations that prohibit civil servants from engaging in political affairs.
The vigilance cell will handle complaints, conduct investigations, and inquire into cases involving government staff suspected of political involvement. Authorities have emphasized that government employees must refrain from joining political parties, attending political events, or participating in election campaigns.
Additionally, the new directive strictly forbids the use of official positions or government resources for political purposes. Should any violations be detected, the vigilance cell will recommend appropriate departmental actions against the individuals involved.
To ensure the policy’s effective enforcement, all District Education Officers (DEOs) have been instructed to fully support the vigilance cell’s operations.
In a significant development, Pakhtoon Digital, a prominent digital news platform in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, has reportedly come under pressure from the provincial government for its coverage of sensitive topics. This includes reports related to the brother of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi.
The platform has faced scrutiny following the publication of reports based on tweets, analyses, and video clips from senior journalists. A legal notice has challenged the airing of such content, intensifying the controversy.
Notably, Aamir Afridi, brother of Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, has filed a defamation suit seeking millions of rupees in damages against Pakhtoon Digital. The notice also contests allegations concerning commission-taking and financial misconduct.
