Kundi calls for zero leniency for May 9 perpetrators

PESHAWAR: Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi on Saturday said those involved in the May 9 riots should face prompt legal proceedings, stating that the accused should be punished in accordance with the law.

He made the remarks while speaking to the media during a visit to a medical camp organised by the Pakistan Red Crescent at the residence of Pakistan Peoples Party Deputy General Secretary Malik Saeed in Pahkha Ghulam, Peshawar.

Kundi said the day held significance in connection with ongoing events linked to the 'Marka-e-Haq'. He was accompanied during the visit by PPP provincial president Muhammad Ali Bacha, Deputy General Secretary Malik Saeed, Abrar Saeed Swati, Red Crescent Chairman Farzand Ali Wazir, Divisional President Misbahuddin and other party leaders.

The governor said the May 9 cases should be concluded swiftly, warning that delays in trials can sometimes lead to accused persons being honorably acquitted. "The cases of May 9 should be decided promptly," Kundi said while speaking to reporters. "Delays in trials sometimes result in accused persons being honorably acquitted. Therefore, those responsible must be punished according to the law."

He said the perpetrators of the May 9 riots were unforgivable and stressed that legal action against those responsible should move ahead without delay.

Remarks on security and diplomacy

Kundi also praised the armed forces, saying they had given a crushing response to the country’s enemies and describing it as one year of sustained deterrence.

He said Pakistan’s diplomacy was receiving appreciation at the international level and added that global attention was currently focused on the country.

the governor said, while expressing hope that important decisions would be taken on Pakistani soil.

He also paid tribute to overseas Pakistanis, saying they were representing the country with pride across the world.

The governor’s comments came during a public welfare activity hosted under the Pakistan Red Crescent, where party office-bearers and local leaders were also present. The event was held at the residence of Malik Saeed in Pahkha Ghulam, Peshawar, and included the participation of senior PPP figures from the province.

Kundi’s media interaction focused on accountability in the May 9 cases, the role of the armed forces, Pakistan’s diplomatic standing and the contribution of overseas Pakistanis.