Following the recent elections, the newly elected members of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly convened to elect the Chief Minister for the province. Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) nominated Ali Amin Gandapur for the coveted position, pitting him against Ibadullah Khan, the candidate from Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N). In a significant victory, Gandapur secured a total of 90 votes, overshadowing Ibadullah Khan, who managed to garner only 16 votes.
In his post-election address, Chief Minister-elect Gandapur raised a crucial issue concerning the first information reports (FIRs) filed against PTI workers. He conveyed a stern message, giving the authorities a one-week deadline to resolve and nullify these FIRs. Gandapur decried what he perceived as injustice and cruelty directed not only at himself but also at Prime Minister Imran Khan and other party members. He cautioned that failure to address these concerns within the stipulated timeframe would result in consequences.
Ali Amin Gandapur holds the dual status of being a Member National Assembly (MNA) and a Provincial Assembly member. His nomination for the position of Chief Minister was endorsed by PTI founder Imran Khan back in February.
Also read: Gandapur Vows to Spark Economic Renaissance in KPK
Moreover, Gandapur’s leadership comes with share of challenges, as he is entangled in multiple assault and corruption cases. He faced registered cases across police stations in Rawalpindi, Lahore, Faisalabad, and Gujranwala, according to reports.
During a casual discussion with local journalists in February, Gandapur outlined his priorities for the province. He emphasized placing a strong focus on the mineral sector, acknowledging its strategic importance. Additionally, he recognized the tourism sector as a vital component of the region’s development. Gandapur committed to leveraging all powers granted under the 18th Amendment to address the needs and aspirations of the people.
He asserted that the PTI government in the province would actively pursue the rights of the people. He also emphasized that they were not seeking charity but rather demanding their rightful share. Gandapur even hinted at the possibility of staging a long march if necessary to assert the province’s rights.
The oath-taking ceremony for the newly-elected members of the provincial assembly took place on February 28. Speaker Mushtaq Ahmad Ghani officiated the the proceedings.
