In a significant political development, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) politics witnessed a major shift as Governor Faisal Karim Kundi confirmed the official receipt of Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur’s handwritten resignation on Saturday afternoon. The move, which has stirred speculation across political circles, marks a crucial moment for the province’s political landscape.
Governor Confirms Receipt
Governor Faisal Karim Kundi stated that the resignation letter was received at 2:30 PM and has been formally acknowledged by the Governor House. He emphasized that the process would strictly follow the constitutional and legal framework before the resignation takes full effect.
“The handwritten resignation of Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur was officially received at half past two today,” the Governor said. “We have acknowledged its receipt, and it will undergo verification as per constitutional procedure.”
Verification Underway
Officials in the Governor House confirmed that the resignation will be subject to verification, a standard legal step to ensure authenticity and compliance. Once verified, the document will move through the constitutional process outlined under Article 130 of the Constitution of Pakistan.
The Governor stressed that all formalities will be handled transparently and within the boundaries of law. “Every constitutional and legal requirement will be fulfilled before processing the resignation,” Kundi affirmed.
A Turning Point in KP Politics
The resignation of CM Gandapur comes at a politically sensitive time, with the province facing administrative and governance challenges amid shifting party alliances. Gandapur, known for his close association with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and his assertive political style, had been a central figure in KP’s governance since assuming office.
His resignation has sparked speculation about possible political realignments, as several sources within the provincial cabinet have hinted at internal disagreements and growing pressure from party leadership.
Political Reactions
Political analysts believe Gandapur’s exit could reshape KP’s political dynamics. Opposition parties in the provincial assembly have already begun consultations over the potential implications of his resignation.
A senior member of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) in Peshawar said, “This move could open the door for a new political arrangement in KP. It’s not just a resignation—it’s a signal of changing priorities within the PTI leadership.”
Meanwhile, PTI insiders suggested that the chief minister’s decision was made after detailed consultations with senior party figures. However, no official statement has been issued by PTI regarding the reasons behind his sudden move.
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Legal Process and Next Steps
According to constitutional practice, once a chief minister’s resignation is verified and accepted by the governor, the provincial cabinet automatically dissolves. The governor then assumes limited administrative powers until a caretaker setup or a new chief minister is elected by the assembly.
If Gandapur’s resignation is accepted, Governor Kundi will likely consult with key stakeholders to ensure the continuity of governance in the province. The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) may also play a role if the process leads to new political developments or by-elections.
Legal experts highlight that the verification process could take several days, as it involves confirming both the authenticity of the document and the intent behind the resignation. “The governor must ensure that the resignation was submitted voluntarily and without external pressure,” one constitutional lawyer explained.
Gandapur’s Political Legacy
Ali Amin Gandapur, who first rose to prominence as a fiery PTI leader from Dera Ismail Khan, became a strong advocate for KP’s autonomy and development. During his tenure, he focused on infrastructure projects, local governance reforms, and law-and-order improvements in tribal districts.
However, his term also faced controversies, including allegations of administrative inefficiency and political friction within his own party. Despite these challenges, Gandapur maintained a loyal following in southern KP and among PTI’s grassroots supporters.
Public and Media Response
The news of Gandapur’s resignation spread rapidly on social media and local news channels, with hashtags such as #GandapurResigns and #KPGovernor trending across Pakistani platforms. Many citizens expressed surprise, while others saw the move as inevitable given the growing political tension in the province.
Journalist groups covering KP politics noted that the resignation could influence upcoming political decisions at both provincial and national levels. “The resignation might be part of a broader strategic shift within PTI ahead of future elections,” one analyst commented.
Governor’s Assurance of Stability
Governor Kundi reassured the public that the transition process would remain smooth and constitutional. “The province will continue to function effectively. The people of KP should rest assured that governance will not be disrupted,” he said in a brief statement.
He added that law and order remain a top priority during this transitional phase. Coordination between the Governor House, provincial administration, and security institutions will continue to ensure stability and continuity.
Political Speculation Intensifies
While official confirmation of Gandapur’s next political steps remains unclear, speculation continues to grow about whether he will retain an active political role or temporarily step back. Some reports suggest that he may be preparing for a new assignment within the PTI leadership or federal structure.
Political observers argue that Gandapur’s departure will create both opportunities and challenges for PTI in KP, particularly as the party attempts to consolidate its influence amid growing political competition.
As the verification and acceptance process continues, all eyes remain on the Governor House. The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa political landscape stands at a turning point, waiting to see who will take charge next and how this change will shape the province’s future direction.
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