Ali Amin Gandapur Faces No-Confidence Motion Amid Shifting Assembly Numbers
The no-confidence motion against Ali Amin Gandapur has sparked a heated debate, with the opposition seeking to capitalize on the shifting assembly numbers. The PTI's response has been to close ranks and defend the government, while the federal government has denied any involvement in the matter. The outcome of the motion will have significant implications for the province and the country as a whole.
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur is facing a possible no-confidence motion as the opposition sees an opportunity to secure support from independent members and oust the PTI-led government. The Supreme Court's ruling on reserved seats has allowed lawmakers who cross the floor to have their votes counted, making the task of removing the government achievable.
The opposition holds around 54 seats in the K-P Assembly and is short by about 19 to 20 votes to secure the required majority. However, with the support of nearly 35 independent members, they may be able to secure the required majority. The situation is reminiscent of the April 2022 no-confidence motion against then Prime Minister Imran Khan, which was successfully executed. Governor Faisal Karim Kundi confirmed that both the ruling alliance and opposition are seriously weighing a no-confidence move against Gandapur.
PTI leadership has finally managed to get its leaders in the same room and on the same page, publicly declaring their loyalty to jailed chief Imran Khan. PTI chairman Gohar Ali Khan and KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur have vowed to defend the government at all costs, warning against any attempt to bring a no-confidence motion. The federal government has denied involvement, with spokespersons stating that they will not resort to any tactic that could plunge Khyber Pakhtunkhwa into a crisis.
The PTI's actions are seen as an attempt to close ranks and maintain control in the province, amid concerns that the government may be planning to replace the KP government with a surrogate coalition. The move has sparked uncertainty and debate, with some arguing that the PTI's achievements in the province can be debated, but the electorate's choice should not be trivialized. The outcome of the no-confidence motion remains uncertain, with the opposition needing to secure at least 73 members to succeed.