KP Speaker Babar Saleem Swati: “We Still Love DG ISPR, But Running Parliament Is Not the Army’s Job”

Peshawar: Speaker of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly **Babar Saleem Swati** delivered a bold address following the election of the new Chief Minister, reminding state institutions of their constitutional boundaries while expressing continued respect for the armed forces.

In his speech, the Speaker said, *“I want to tell DG ISPR that we still love you. Our sons serve in the armed forces, defending this sacred soil and sacrificing their lives every day. We love them deeply—but running Parliament is not the job of any institution.”*

Swati emphasized that the provincial assembly represents **4.5 million people** of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and must function independently under parliamentary norms. *“Parliament is the representative jirga of this province. Today’s session was conducted as per parliamentary procedures, and future sessions will be the same. If unconstitutional actions are taken, how will that increase love between us?”*

He further urged the establishment to respect the Constitution, saying, *“We still love you—please understand that and let these affections grow. Let this province and this country run according to the Constitution and the law.”*

The Speaker also praised outgoing leader **Ali Amin Gandapur**, saying he governed with dignity and promptly obeyed his party leader’s decision to step down.

Announcing the voting results for the Chief Minister’s election, Swati stated:

Lutfur Rehman (MPA):** 0 votes
Sardar Shah Jehan (MPA):** 0 votes
Arbab Zarak Khan (MPA):** 0 votes
Sohaib Afridi (MPA, PK-76):** 90 votes
He added that three members—**Asif Masood**, **Ahmed Kundi**, and **Jalal Khan**—were currently abroad and unable to participate in the vote.