Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has shed rare light on the uneasy relationship between the establishment and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan, admitting that mistrust persists due to past incidents.
Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad, Gandapur revealed that while he initiated a negotiation process, it was later abandoned, leaving the rift unresolved. He stressed the need for political reconciliation, urging all parties to move past egos and demands for apologies. Gandapur argued that the establishment, which in his view had “stolen PTI’s mandate” and filed false cases against its leadership, bore responsibility for seeking forgiveness.
Imran Khan, who has been incarcerated since August 2023 following multiple cases ranging from corruption to terrorism, remains unwilling to engage with parties he brands as “thieves and looters.”
Gandapur noted that he had been barred from meeting Khan since April but vowed to press for dialogue among political forces to improve the country’s outlook if granted the opportunity. He admitted to relaying messages between Khan and the establishment in the past but refrained from disclosing sensitive details.
The chief minister also criticised political rivals, particularly JUI-F leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman, whom he claimed had lost relevance and relied on blackmail to secure power. On governance, Gandapur asserted that the army had not interfered in his administrative affairs and reiterated PTI’s stance that institutions should operate within constitutional boundaries.
Discussing policy, he said Imran Khan favours a presidential system and would secure a sweeping victory under it. Gandapur criticised the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), proposing that its funds be redirected to entrepreneurship schemes in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
He also pledged the construction of two provincial dams and strongly advocated for the Kalabagh Dam, calling it vital for Pakistan’s water and energy security. Additionally, he supported the creation of new provinces, provided they were economically viable.
