ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan on Sunday condemned the imposition of an emergency and governor’s rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, describing the move as undemocratic and warning that it could intensify political confrontation between the federal and provincial governments.
In a statement, Gohar termed the decision a serious political mistake, saying the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa would not accept measures that undermined their rights and electoral mandate.
“The mandate of the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is their constitutional and legal right,” he said, adding that peace and stability could not be achieved by disregarding that mandate, weakening provincial autonomy or creating a confrontation between the Centre and the province.
The PTI chairman said there was no disagreement over the need to eliminate terrorism but maintained that the fight against militancy could not be used to suppress public voices, pursue political objectives or curtail the province’s constitutional powers.
“Combating terrorism is possible only through national unity and a joint strategy,” he said.
Gohar argued that weakening provinces would not strengthen the federation, stressing that political wisdom, constitutional supremacy, meaningful dialogue and practical measures were needed to address the country’s challenges rather than coercion, confrontation and extraordinary measures.
He said the party would raise its voice at every constitutional, legal and democratic forum to protect the public mandate, provincial autonomy and democratic rights.
“Strong provinces are the foundation of a strong federation, and the rule of the Constitution is the guarantee of a strong Pakistan,” he said.
Urging the federal government to reconsider its decision, Gohar said there was still time to withdraw the move within days. He called on the Centre to set aside its ego, understand ground realities, accept legitimate demands and respect public sentiments to prevent further political and economic damage and avoid setbacks to the democratic process.
“Reviewing political decisions is not a sign of weakness but a demonstration of wisdom in the national interest,” he said, warning that failure to reconsider the decision could lead to serious consequences.
President Asif Ali Zardari signed the advice sent by the Prime Minister’s Office to impose an emergency in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa amid concerns over the deteriorating security situation, according to the presidential proclamation.
