CM Gandapur
LAHORE: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur delivered a powerful and emotionally charged speech on Thursday, accusing the country’s power brokers of systematically undermining democratic principles and suppressing genuine leadership.
Speaking at the Lahore High Court Bar, Gandapur declared that Pakistan’s decision-makers do not seek visionary leaders but instead prefer “slaves” who will obey orders without question.
He began his address by criticizing the 2024 general elections, calling them heavily rigged to bring “selected, not elected individuals” into power. Gandapur stated that Pakistan’s political decline began the moment individuals were installed into leadership roles through manipulation rather than public mandate. “Since then, the Constitution has been repeatedly violated, martial laws imposed, and the will of the people crushed,” he said.
He drew historical parallels by referencing the controversial execution of former Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, asking, “What punishment was given to those who hanged Bhutto?”
Gandapur lamented the erosion of national dignity and sovereignty, stating, “We are no longer free — our leaders, provinces, and even our people are all enslaved.” He suggested that this lack of independence has rendered Pakistan incapable of standing up for oppressed Muslims globally, a point that resonated deeply with the audience.
He sharply criticized the current system of governance, claiming that those in power seek total control and domination. “If you want to install and dismiss governments at your whim, then why even have assemblies or a Constitution?” he questioned. He described the current political environment as one where the ruling elite act as judge, jury, and executioner.
The chief minister also defended the incarcerated founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), asserting that his only crime is advocating for the rule of law, constitutional supremacy, and national pride. “He’s not fighting for personal gain but for Pakistan’s future,” Gandapur declared.
He added that despite severe repression—including the imprisonment of the PTI founder, his wife, and numerous supporters, and the killing of 14 party workers—their struggle for justice and democracy would not be silenced. “The more you try to silence us, the louder we will rise,” he vowed.
Turning his focus to governance in KP, Gandapur claimed significant achievements in fighting corruption and financial management. “Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is the richest province today,” he stated proudly, highlighting that his government has successfully brought in substantial funds to the province.
The chief minister concluded his speech by reaffirming his commitment to democratic values and constitutional supremacy, warning that the people of Pakistan would no longer tolerate manipulated politics and suppression of their voices.
