Emergency, Governor’s Rule in KP under consideration as government finalises preparations

PESHAWAR : Preparations for a possible imposition of an emergency or Governor’s Rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have reportedly been completed, as the federal government weighs its options amid growing security concerns and political tensions in the province.
According to sources, preliminary arrangements for administrative reshuffles have been finalised, including the possible replacement of deputy commissioners and secretaries.

Lists of officers for appointments as regional and district police officers have also reportedly been prepared.

Sources further indicated that a proposal to initially impose an emergency in 12 districts of the province is under consideration. However, the final decision will depend on developments in negotiations between the government and the opposition.

According to the sources, if negotiations succeed, the government may abandon plans to impose an emergency or Governor’s Rule.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has reportedly convened an important meeting today to review the security situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where the possibility of imposing an emergency is expected to be discussed.

Although formal negotiations between the government and the opposition are reportedly not underway, backchannel contacts between the two sides are said to be continuing.

Meanwhile, senior Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders are expected to meet Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi to discuss the latest political and security developments.

According to sources, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan and other party leaders will brief the chief minister on messages received from the federal level. The meeting is also expected to discuss the proposed long march and the party’s future strategy.

Sources said important decisions could emerge from the meeting between the chief minister and the PTI leadership as the situation develops.