A major political shift took place in Azad Jammu and Kashmir as PPP and PML-N lawmakers submitted a No-Confidence Motion against Prime Minister Anwarul Haq.
The motion was filed on Friday at the Legislative Assembly Secretariat. PPP members reached the assembly early to submit the document to the special secretary, as the Assembly Secretary was unavailable.
Seventeen lawmakers from PPP and PML-N have signed the No-Confidence Motion so far. Prominent signatories include PML-N President Shah Ghulam Qadir and former Prime Minister Raja Farooq Haider. Their support shows the seriousness of the challenge to the current government.
PPP has nominated Faisal Mumtaz Rathore as its candidate for the prime ministership under the No-Confidence Motion. Party sources said the official nomination is under a “secret section” until the process is formally completed. More lawmakers are expected to sign the motion, strengthening the opposition’s position in the assembly.
Discussion among party leaders suggests Prime Minister Anwarul Haq may not dissolve the assembly. According to reports, he could also consider resignation depending on how the political situation develops.
Former Prime Minister Raja Pervaiz Ashraf and senior PPP leaders held a press conference outside Zardari House in Islamabad. They emphasized the party’s confidence in forming the next government in Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Ashraf highlighted PPP’s historical commitment to Kashmir and promised that the party will address the problems of Kashmiri citizens.
PPP currently holds 27 seats in the AJK Legislative Assembly. With support from PML-N and allied factions, the combined strength is expected to reach 40 seats, enough to secure a majority.
Faisal Mumtaz Rathore, born in Rawalpindi in 1978, has served multiple terms as an MLA. He has held key cabinet positions and is the Secretary General of PPP AJK. His experience and political background make him a strong candidate for the premiership.
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The political environment in Azad Jammu and Kashmir remains tense, with opposition parties pushing forward to replace the current government through the No-Confidence Motion.
