KARACHI: Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon on Wednesday stated that the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) would be welcomed in Sindh in line with provincial traditions of hospitality, but clarified that the Sindh government holds strong objections to the politics of Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI).

In this regard, he cited among other things like the opening of Taliban offices by the PTI and the release of terrorists during its previous government in the Centre.

Speaking to the media after a visit to the Karachi Press Club (KPC), Mr Memon assured that the KP chief minister would be provided complete security and facilities within the constitutional and legal framework.

However, he referenced the APS tragedy as the darkest incident in world history and noted that events like the Bannu jail break raised significant questions. The minister emphasised that while political differences have their place, they would not compromise the tradition of hospitality.

The minister’s visit was to congratulate the newly elected office-bearers of the KPC, led by President Fazil Jamili and General Secretary Aslam Khan.

During a meeting, KPC officials apprised the minister of the problems faced by the journalist community. Mr Memon assured them that these issues would be resolved on a priority basis and announced an initiative to provide free scooters to women journalists within ten days, provided they submit their driving licences for a training programme.

He remarked that journalism is evolving beyond traditional media, and pledged the Sindh government’s full cooperation in developing the field along modern lines. He highlighted that the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has consistently supported press freedom and journalist organisations.

The minister, who also holds the transport portfolio, announced the expansion of the Peoples Bus Service to Tando Allah Yar, Khairpur, and Shikarpur. He also pointed to the introduction of pink buses for women and eco-friendly electric vehicles in the province.

Mr Memon also commented on the provincial government’s work in the health sector, stating that treatment, including advanced procedures like Cyber Knife, is being provided free of cost in Sindh’s hospitals to patients from across Pakistan, without requiring a domicile or identity card.

In response to further questions, he commented that the law and order situation in Sindh is better due to ‘effective police operations’ in slum areas.

He reiterated that while all political parties have the right to conduct political activities, the government would not permit any chaos, incitement of hatred, or lawlessness.

Published in Dawn, January 8th, 2026