State Minister for Law Aqeel Malik on Sunday appeared to confirm media reports that the federal government is “seriously considering” imposing governor’s rule in Khyber-Pakhtnukhwa, even as Governor Faisal Karim Kundi denied any knowledge of the matter.
“The situation in KP is evident to everyone, given the cross-border terrorism and governance issues,” Malik told Geo News, maintaining the imposition of governor’s rule was under consideration due to security concerns and national security requirements.
He claimed KP Chief Minister Sohail Afridi and his team had “badly failed” to ensure effective governance or achieve a “workable situation” with the federation. “They do not maintain coordination or cohesion with the federation,” he said, stressing that if such a situation arose, it would not be unprecedented in Pakistan’s history.
“The [current situation in KP] situation calls for a measure to ensure an administrative structure that can deliver benefits to its people,” he said, adding the federal government could not leave the people of the province helpless.
Malik noted that the Constitution allows for the imposition of governor’s rule in a province for two months, with extensions possible through parliamentary approval.
KP Information Secretary Shafiq Jan, however, told Geo News any attempt to oust the elected government would provoke backlash.
Kundi’s reaction
According to local media, a potential move toward imposing governor’s rule may be preceded by a replacement of the governor from the incumbent Faisal Karim Kundi. According to sources, Kundi remains the top choice to remain governor, but politicians Ameer Haider Hoti, Pervez Khattak and Aftab Sherpao are also being considered. Additionally, Lt. Gen. Ghayaour Mahmood (ret.) and Lt. Gen. Khalid Rabbani (ret.) could also be considered.
Speaking with media, Kundi said he had no information regarding any move to replace him or impose governor’s rule. However, he said, he would accept whatever decision his party, the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), makes.