The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) is set to move a no-confidence motion against Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Prime Minister Anwar-ul-Haq by Thursday or Friday, party insiders confirmed on Wednesday. The move comes as the PPP finalised the name of Chaudhry Yasin as its candidate for the region’s new prime minister.
According to sources, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari gave his final approval after detailed consultations with the party’s AJK leadership in Islamabad.
The decision followed extensive discussions on potential candidates for the top slot, including Latif Akbar, Faisal Mumtaz Rathore, and Sardar Yaqoob. Ultimately, Bilawal endorsed Chaudhry Yasin — a senior and influential figure in AJK politics — to lead the new government.
A formal announcement of the nomination is expected later tonight. Party leaders said Yasin is expected to drive the PPP’s agenda for political stability and administrative reform in Azad Kashmir once elected.
Sources also indicated that discussions are underway regarding the formation of a new cabinet, with the final list likely to be announced soon after the election of the new prime minister. With support from the Pakistan Muslim League, the PPP currently enjoys a majority in the AJK Legislative Assembly, holding 36 votes.
Meanwhile, communication between the PPP and AJK President Barrister Sultan Mahmood has resumed after several years. Faryal Talpur recently met the president at Kashmir House, reaffirming that the PPP would continue to recognise him as the constitutional head of the state.
The party has decided not to pursue his removal, noting that several of his close allies — including his son Yasir Sultan, an assembly member — have already joined the PPP. The renewed alliance marks a shift in AJK’s political landscape as the no-confidence motion nears.
