PESHAWAR: Amidst the ongoing challenges faced by Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P), including inadequate healthcare, struggling educational institutions, and persistent security concerns, the provincial administration has chosen a different approach to governance—renaming existing landmarks instead of launching new development projects.
The latest example of this trend is the decision to rename the historic Arbab Niaz Stadium as Imran Khan Stadium. The move has sparked widespread criticism, particularly given that the stadium has remained in a dilapidated state for nearly two decades. Since hosting its last international match between Pakistan and India in 2006, the venue has failed to meet International Cricket Council (ICC) standards, and reconstruction efforts remain incomplete even after 18 years.
Public Backlash Against the Renaming
Critics argue that instead of engaging in symbolic rebranding, the government should focus on tangible improvements. Former federal minister and Awami National Party (ANP) leader Ghulam Ahmed Bilour expressed strong opposition, stating that Arbab Niaz Stadium represents Peshawar’s heritage. “This is purely political. PTI did not build a new stadium in 13 years, and now they want to change the name of an existing one. If we start renaming everything based on political affiliations, future governments will do the same,” warned Bilour.
Veteran cricketer Mushtaq Afridi echoed similar sentiments, lamenting the lost opportunities for aspiring cricketers. “Had the stadium been reconstructed a decade ago, it could have produced top-tier players for league matches, international tournaments, and the Pakistan Super League (PSL),” said Afridi.
Former Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) federal minister Arbab Alamgir urged political unity to address the more pressing issue of law and order rather than engage in name changes. “Altering the stadium’s name will not solve K-P’s governance issues. The focus should be on making real improvements,” he asserted.
History of Controversial Renaming Attempts
This is not the first instance of renaming causing controversy in K-P. During the tenure of former Chief Minister Mehmood Khan, there was a proposal to rename Peshawar’s Bacha Khan International Airport as Imran Khan International Airport, but it was retracted after political backlash, particularly from the ANP. Similarly, the decision to rename the Nawaz Sharif Kidney Hospital in Swat also drew sharp criticism.
Ghulam Ali, former Governor of K-P and a senior leader of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F), condemned the renaming of Arbab Niaz Stadium. “Instead of changing names, the provincial government should build a brand-new international cricket ground. That would truly elevate the province’s profile and benefit sports development,” he suggested.
Opposition and Legal Threats
Interestingly, Aleema Khan, the sister of PTI founder Imran Khan, has claimed that Imran himself is not in favor of the renaming decision. Despite this, the provincial government has yet to rescind the notification. The PPP has announced that it will challenge the decision in court if the renaming is not reversed.
Meanwhile, the stadium’s long-delayed reconstruction continues. Initially, the project was budgeted at Rs1.5 billion, but costs have now escalated to Rs2 billion. The K-P government has promised that the stadium will be completed next month, just in time for the upcoming PSL matches.
MUST READ
https://flare.pk/2025/03/karachi-weather-rising-temperatures-forecast/
FAQs
- Why is Arbab Niaz Stadium being renamed?
The K-P government has decided to rename the stadium after Imran Khan, which many view as a political move rather than a development initiative. - Has the stadium been renovated since its last international match in 2006?
No, despite 18 years passing since its last international game, reconstruction efforts have been slow and remain incomplete. - What are critics saying about the renaming?
Critics argue that instead of symbolic gestures, the government should prioritize governance, infrastructure, and public welfare in K-P. - Has there been any previous controversy over renaming landmarks in K-P?
Yes, previous attempts to rename Bacha Khan International Airport and Nawaz Sharif Kidney Hospital faced backlash, leading to reversals. - Will the renaming decision be challenged legally?
The PPP has announced its intention to take legal action if the government does not withdraw the renaming notification.
