In a significant political development, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has decided to remove Ali Amin Gandapur from his position as Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). Party sources confirmed that the decision was reached after internal consultations aimed at resolving growing differences within the provincial leadership.
According to insiders, the move is intended to restore stability in KP, where disputes within PTI had been slowing down governance. Gandapur, who assumed office earlier this year, has faced criticism from senior party members regarding his leadership approach and handling of administrative matters.
Discussions are currently underway to finalize a new chief minister. Several candidates are being reviewed, with the leadership focusing on unity, improved governance, and preparation for the next provincial elections. Insiders suggest that the leadership is particularly concerned about ensuring cohesion within the party at a time when internal disagreements have become increasingly visible.
The decision has not gone unchallenged within PTI. Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, a senior party leader and chairman, publicly opposed the move in a tweet. He argued that removing Gandapur could deepen divisions rather than strengthen the party’s position in KP. His statement reflects the ongoing debate within PTI about how best to manage the province and keep the party united.
Political analysts believe the removal of a sitting chief minister is a sensitive and unusual step that carries both risks and opportunities. Opposition parties are expected to seize on this development, highlighting it as a sign of instability within PTI and raising questions about the party’s governance record in KP.
This leadership change also underscores PTI’s efforts to reposition itself ahead of the next general elections. Maintaining influence in its political strongholds remains vital for the party, and its success in KP is seen as central to its overall national strategy. The ongoing deliberations over Gandapur’s successor are therefore being closely monitored by both supporters and opponents.
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s broader political and economic outlook continues to shift. The federal government recently revised its GDP growth figures upward, signaling economic recovery that could influence political narratives at both federal and provincial levels.
The final announcement on Gandapur’s successor is expected soon. PTI leaders maintain that the change is necessary to stabilize governance in KP and to strengthen the party’s position for future challenges.
