PTI-Aligned Leaders Join Istehkam Pakistan Party, Reshaping Gilgit-Baltistan Politics

Islamabad: Leaders aligned with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) have announced their joining of the Istehkam Pakistan Party (IPP), marking a significant political development in Gilgit-Baltistan.

The announcement was made during a press conference at the residence of Federal Minister and IPP President Abdul Aleem Khan. Among the prominent figures joining the party were former Governor and Chief Minister of Gilgit-Baltistan, Jalal Hussain Maqpoon and Haji Gulbar Khan, as well as former opposition leader of the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly, Captain Shafi. Several former ministers, including Fatahullah Khan, Shamsullah Haq, Haji Shah Baig, and Dilshad Bano, also joined, alongside other regional leaders such as Khan Akbar Khan, Maulana Sultan Rais, and Iman Shah.

During the press briefing, Abdul Aleem Khan emphasized that the party brings extensive political experience and will fully support campaigns in Gilgit-Baltistan. He highlighted the region’s economic potential, particularly in tourism, and stressed the party’s goal to relieve local residents from excessive taxation.

Addressing internal party dynamics, Khan clarified that his departure from his previous political affiliation was not a rebellion but a result of diverging paths, adding that IPP aims to present a clear manifesto to the people of Gilgit-Baltistan and compete based on public support.

Senior IPP leaders, including Minister of State Aun Chaudhry, Parliamentary Secretary Gul Asghar Bughur, and Punjab President Rana Nazir Ahmed Khan, were also present at the event.