President Zardari Declares Emergency in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Under Article 232

ISLAMABAD:President Asif Ali Zardari has reportedly decided to impose an emergency in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa under Article 232 of the Constitution, citing a surge in terrorist attacks and a serious deterioration in the province’s law and order situation.

According to the reported presidential proclamation, the growing intensity of terrorist incidents has posed serious threats to the lives and property of citizens. It also cites an increase in attacks on government installations, critical infrastructure and law enforcement agencies.

The proclamation alleges that the provincial government has failed to demonstrate the necessary commitment and take effective measures to counter terrorism and lawlessness.

### Governor’s Report Cited in Proclamation

According to the statement, the governor of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa submitted a report highlighting a breakdown in the constitutional system and arguing that the provincial government was unable to function in accordance with the Constitution.

President Zardari reportedly deemed immediate constitutional action necessary in view of what the proclamation describes as a grave emergency in the province.

The declaration has reportedly been issued under Articles 232(1) and 234(1) of the Constitution.

### Federal Government May Assume Provincial Powers

Under the reported arrangements, the federal government would be able to direct the governor of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to assume responsibility for all or some functions of the provincial government.

The governor would exercise the provincial powers assigned by the federal government. Other provincial authorities and institutions, excluding the provincial assembly, could also have some or all of their powers exercised by the governor under federal directions.

The proclamation further states that the powers of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly would be exercised by Parliament or under its authority.

### Chief Minister and Provincial Ministers to Leave Office

According to the reported proclamation, the chief minister, provincial ministers, advisers, special assistants and advocate general would immediately cease to hold their respective offices.

The declaration is stated to take effect immediately.

**Verification note:** The above report is based on the proclamation details provided. The authenticity and official publication of the declaration have not been independently verified.