ISLAMABAD: Ali Amin Gandapur’s removal as Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa surprised many, though close observers sensed the shift coming. Some PTI circles believe that Aleema Khan and Bushra Bibi’s political alignment led to the ouster of Gandapur.
Gandapur stayed in Islamabad for several days for a meeting with PTI founder Imran Khan. He aimed to convince Khan to let him continue, but events quickly moved beyond his control.
Soon after the party announced his replacement, Gandapur tried for a last-minute meeting with Imran Khan. However, the effort proved futile, forcing him to step down. On social media, Gandapur stated, “I held the KP chief ministership in trust for Imran Khan and am returning it to him after resigning.”
Smooth Transition Within the Party
PTI insiders revealed that Gandapur preferred a peaceful exit to avoid more challenges for the embattled party. They confirmed he would ensure a smooth handover to his successor. Rumors about a leadership change had circulated for weeks, and sources close to Sohail Afridi had hinted at his selection for the top slot. Afridi, reportedly Bushra Bibi’s preferred candidate, emerged as the consensus choice for the next chief minister.
Leadership Decision and Internal Dynamics
Party insiders disclosed that both Bushra Bibi and Imran Khan’s sister agreed on Gandapur’s removal — a rare alignment of views. According to PTI sources, Imran Khan had already decided Gandapur’s fate after the November 26 march on Islamabad. During that event, Gandapur’s unexplained disappearance left party workers confused and frustrated.
Although he later met Khan several times in jail and pledged loyalty, Khan ultimately made the decision to replace him without consulting other party members. Insiders said the resignation would ease internal divisions and bring unity to PTI’s provincial ranks.
Sohail Afridi Set to Lead KP
Senior PTI figures, including Junaid Akbar, Atif Khan, and Asad Qaiser, congratulated Afridi and pledged full support. Atif Khan emphasized their collective commitment to strengthening the province and advancing Imran Khan’s vision. Afridi, recently appointed as the provincial minister for higher education, previously served as special assistant on works and communication.
If formally installed, Afridi will become the first chief minister from the former tribal areas. He holds a Master’s in Economics from the University of Peshawar and has long been associated with the Insaf Students Federation, where he once served as chairman.
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