Pakistan Politics: PTI Reiterates Support for Civil Disobedience as Gandapur Speaks Out Against Federal Government

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur maintained that his party, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), prioritizes negotiation and discussion as a key tenet of the party's platform, drawing on the long-standing emphasis on talk-based politics by PTI founder Imran Khan.

In his latest statement, Gandapur also underscored PTI's resolve not to shy away from a military trial, stressing that the military belongs to the nation and is therefore accountable to the people. Notably, he highlighted that PTI is seeking to hold the current government accountable for its actions, demanding that the government follow through on its promise to place PTI leaders and workers on trial. Gandapur emphasized that any negotiations would necessarily centre on three core issues: the atrocities committed against PTI leaders and workers, the unconditional release of PTI founders and workers, and the reclaiming of the stolen mandate and unconstitutional amendments implemented by the current administration. Asserting that the current government lacks legitimacy, Gandapur dismissed the government's authority, casting the recent events of May 9 as a conspiracy orchestrated against PTI. He called for an impartial investigation into the incidents, pointing out that despite significant force being deployed, including thousands of police officers, tear gas, and violence, PTI supporters remained steadfast and resolute.

Gandapur reinforced his commitment to Imran Khan, vowing that the provincial government would remain loyal to the PTI founder's directives, including the policy of civil disobedience. There was also a strong message from Gandapur against the federal government for struggling to deal with the ongoing cross-border issues with Afghanistan, citing significant losses for the province as a result. Gandapur stated that the region's regional administration has demonstrated an effort to address pressing issues in the territory. This effort includes employing troops to safeguard sensitive territories and initiating projects for local development, such as a mining company recently launched, as well as laying out new power transmission lines. He restated that the province would continue fighting against terrorism and continue for constitutional rights.

The anxiety that the nation is on the verge of civil war is an ever-present topic in present-day Pakistan as the situation spirals downward. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister highlighted this point in a public statement. He echoed the threat of ‘arm-wielding PTI activists in the streets if Imran Khan is not released. As the critics of Imran Khan accuse his administration of violating human rights, the situation of further extremism and threats by combating political opponents escalates.