Peshawar: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has approved changes to the procedure for appointing and transferring senior police officers under the proposed Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police Act 2026.
The decision was taken during the provincial cabinet’s 59th meeting, chaired by Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Afridi. Information Minister Shafi Jan said the new law would give the provincial government greater authority over police appointments, including the Inspector General (IG) of Police.
Under the proposed legislation, the provincial government would have the power to seek the return of federal police officers, including the IG, if their performance is deemed unsatisfactory.
The reforms also propose separating police policy-making from operational matters. A Police Policy Board, headed by the chief minister, will oversee policy matters, while a Police Operations Board, headed by the IG, will supervise operational affairs.
The government also plans to appoint Regional Investigation Officers to strengthen the investigation system. Transfers and postings of Regional Police Officers and District Police Officers will be regulated under the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Rules of Business 1985.
According to the provincial government, the reforms are aimed at improving police accountability, strengthening investigations and enhancing the professional development of police officers.
The proposed law would also restructure the promotion system by revising the quotas for promotions, fast-track promotions and direct recruitment to create better career opportunities within the police force.
The existing Dispute Resolution Councils across the province will be dissolved and reconstituted under the new law with clearer procedures aimed at ensuring greater transparency and uniformity.
The provincial government said the reforms are intended to create a more accountable and professionally managed police system while clearly separating policy responsibilities from day-to-day police operations.
