Former Ali Amin Gandapur has claimed that his official security was withdrawn by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government. The provincial administration has strongly denied the allegation.
The controversy emerged after Gandapur said he was informed late at night that his security detail had been ordered to return. The statement has sparked political debate in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Gandapur, a senior leader of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, resigned as chief minister in October last year. He now says he does not need any government-provided security.
Gandapur Says Security Team Was Told to Return
Speaking to supporters, Gandapur said he received information around 11pm regarding his security withdrawal. He claimed that the deputy chief security officer contacted his assigned personnel. According to him, the officer ordered the team to report back immediately.
Gandapur stated that he had been provided a government-issued jammer vehicle. He also had a double-cabin vehicle and a 14-member security team. He said the personnel approached him after receiving the call.
He told them to “just close up” and stand down. He added that even if the government restores his security, he will refuse it.
“I want to inform the chief minister that there is no need to return my security. I do not require it,” Gandapur said. His remarks were brief but firm.
The development quickly gained traction on social media. Political observers described the situation as sensitive given the province’s security environment.
KP Government Rejects Withdrawal Claims
The Chief Minister’s House spokesperson rejected Gandapur’s claim. Officials stated that no decision had been taken to withdraw his security.
The spokesperson clarified that no instructions were issued to relevant departments. The government maintained that reports of withdrawal were inaccurate.
Officials insisted that Gandapur’s security status remains unchanged. They said no formal communication regarding removal of protection was made.
The situation has created confusion among party workers and political circles. Some analysts see it as part of ongoing internal political tensions.
Political Background and Resignation Context
Gandapur stepped down as chief minister on October 8 last year. He said his resignation followed instructions from PTI founder Imran Khan.
In a public message, he described his resignation as an act of respect and compliance with party leadership. Hours later, Sohail Afridi was nominated for the top provincial post.
Afridi was elected chief executive of the province on October 13. He took oath on October 15.
At the time, senior PTI leader Sher Afzal Marwat claimed that Gandapur faced internal pressure. He said one key issue was the inability to secure Imran Khan’s release from jail.
Gandapur remains an outspoken political figure. His latest statement has once again placed him at the center of attention.
The provincial government continues to deny any change in his security arrangements. The matter may develop further if formal clarification is issued in writing.
For now, Gandapur says he does not need official protection. The KP government says it never withdrew it.
