Amid rising speculation over the potential imposition of governor’s rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur issued a stern warning to the federal government, stating that the opposition Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) would not be deterred by such measures. His remarks come amid escalating tensions following a late-night crackdown on PTI protesters in Islamabad.
Speaking to journalists outside the KP Assembly in Peshawar, Gandapur declared, “Governor’s rule or emergency cannot stop us.” He reiterated PTI’s commitment to its cause and criticized the federal government’s handling of protests.
A day earlier, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs, Rana Sanaullah, confirmed during an interview that the federal cabinet had deliberated over imposing governor’s rule in KP. However, a consensus was not reached, and the matter was deferred for further discussion. According to sources, Federal Minister Amir Muqam had proposed the move, citing the use of KP resources for staging violent protests in Islamabad. The proposal reportedly gained support from a majority of cabinet members.
Chief Minister Gandapur has been at the forefront of PTI’s demonstrations demanding the release of political prisoners, including former Prime Minister Imran Khan. The protests, which have caused significant unrest in the federal capital and nearby areas, have drawn criticism from the ruling coalition over alleged misuse of state machinery.
During his speech on the floor of the KP Assembly, Gandapur condemned the authorities for using force against what he described as peaceful demonstrators. He alleged that PTI protesters were fired upon at multiple locations, including Chungi No. 26, China Chowk, and D-Chowk, despite the government’s denial of direct firing.
“We must bring a revolution to save future generations,” Gandapur asserted, calling for the immediate release of PTI’s founder, Imran Khan.
The development comes after a late-night crackdown in Islamabad’s D-Chowk, where PTI claims nearly 1,000 of its workers were arrested. The party also alleged that hundreds of protesters were shot, with reported fatalities ranging from eight to 40. The government, however, categorically denied the use of live ammunition and fatalities during the operation to disperse demonstrators.
