In a significant political development, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur met with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and described their engagement as “positive,” marking the first interaction between the chief executives of rival parties, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).
Addressing a press conference alongside PML-N leaders, including Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, CM Gandapur emphasized the importance of political dialogue with PTI’s incarcerated founder, who has been in custody since August on various charges.
Gandapur urged the prime minister to politically engage with Imran Khan, stating that such engagement could lead to a political resolution. He also mentioned that PM Shehbaz assured him of permission to meet Imran Khan in Adiala Jail, Rawalpindi, despite heightened security measures.
The KP CM highlighted the need for a meeting with Imran Khan to discuss upcoming Senate polls and emphasized resolving public issues. He expressed satisfaction with the meeting, describing it as “good and positive.”
The meeting between the leaders of rival parties is viewed as a significant step in reducing political tensions, especially following the PTI-led government’s removal via a no-confidence motion in April 2022.
Gandapur reaffirmed PTI’s stance that the current rulers obtained power through electoral manipulation but expressed commitment to maintaining a constructive relationship with the federal government.
The meeting occurred shortly after the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) issued a notice to Gandapur regarding a petition seeking his disqualification over alleged misrepresentation about land ownership.
Regarding PM Shehbaz’s recent visit to KP, Gandapur explained his absence, citing a tradition of special hospitality for guests.
Planning Minister Iqbal welcomed the meeting between KP’s CM and the PM, affirming the federal government’s commitment to development and maintaining law and order in the province.
PM Shehbaz’s directives to ensure electricity supply during religious observances and his assurance of fairness to all were highlighted as outcomes of the meeting, emphasizing the inclusive nature of the state’s responsibilities.
