Imran Not Going Anywhere, and Gandapur Still Has His Trust

PESHAWAR; Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has categorically denied reports suggesting that PTI founder Imran Khan has asked him to resign. He clarified that he holds office with the full confidence of Imran Khan and the backing of the party’s mandate.

“I serve as chief minister because the PTI founder trusts me […] this is his government, and I am carrying out his mandate,” Gandapur stated on Sunday.

His remarks come a day after media reports quoted sources claiming that Imran Khan, from behind bars, had said Gandapur should step down if he failed to restore law and order in the province.

A spokesperson for the KP CM also rejected the reports, maintaining that no authentic source has confirmed any such message from Imran. “The KP government is a reflection of the founding chairman’s vision. The chief minister will resign the moment the PTI founder directs,” the spokesperson added.

Faraz Mughal, the CM’s spokesperson, also highlighted the difficulties Gandapur faces in trying to meet Imran Khan. “Despite clear court orders, he has not been allowed to meet his leader at Adiala Jail. Legal and constitutional protocols are being ignored,” he said.

He emphasized Gandapur’s efforts to address security concerns in the province, noting that tribal jirgas have been activated at regional levels to help counter terrorism.

Gandapur, addressing another issue, also rubbished speculation about Imran Khan planning to leave the country, calling it “baseless propaganda” aimed at weakening the party’s movement. “Imran Khan has never expressed any intention to go abroad. These narratives are part of a malicious agenda pushed by his opponents,” he said.

The chief minister also emphasized the need for dialogue and diplomacy to address ongoing challenges, particularly in KP. “Military operations are not the answer. We’ve seen in the past that force alone doesn’t bring lasting peace,” he said. Gandapur advocated for improved relations and engagement with Afghanistan to stabilize the border region.

He concluded by underscoring the importance of restoring public confidence in institutions. “If issues are swept under the rug, they eventually become much bigger problems. The state cannot move forward without mutual trust between institutions, the government, and the people,” Gandapur warned.