PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Assembly session convened today to elect a new leader, with chaos erupting over the status of Ali Amin Gandapur’s resignation as the chief minister and the nomination of Sohail Afridi as the next candidate.
The session, chaired by Speaker Babar Saleem Swati, saw the arrival of both Gandapur and Afridi, greeted with cheers and slogans by government members. Gandapur offered warm congratulations to Sohail Afridi, stating that the latter would receive “all kinds of support” from him and hailing Afridi as the continuation of the democratic process.
In an impassioned speech, Gandapur recounted his 18-month tenure, declaring his record as chief minister was transparent and open to scrutiny. “Whatever I did is on record. Was it good or bad, it is in front of everyone,” he said, adding that Rs 280 billion remain in the provincial treasury and highlighted an additional Rs 35 billion injected into the development budget during his term.
He accused opponents of mocking his resignation and using delaying tactics. “I sent my resignation to the Governor House on October 8. Let the democratic process happen and do not use delaying tactics,” he said
Gandapur reiterated his commitment to peace, justice, and the fight against terrorism and economic challenges, and criticized India and Israel for “heating up oppression.”
However, the situation turned tense when Opposition Leader Ibadullah questioned the legitimacy of the proceedings. He claimed that Gandapur’s resignation had not been officially accepted and that neither the cabinet was suspended nor a proper procedure was followed, as per the Constitution.
“I still consider Ali Amin Gandapur as the Chief Minister,” Ibadullah said, holding up a letter from the Governor House as evidence that the resignation was not legally processed. “We cannot be part of an unconstitutional move,” he added, before announcing a walkout.
The Assembly descended into noise during Ibadullah’s speech, with pro-Gandapur and pro-Afridi slogans echoing through the chamber. Speaker Swati repeatedly urged members to maintain order, while Ibadullah acknowledged the passion of workers, noting, “They were chanting for Gandapur before, now for Sohail Afridi.”
Despite the disruption, the government side moved ahead with the nomination of Sohail Afridi, while the entire opposition exited the assembly hall in protest, leaving the House in a state of political uncertainty.