In Pakistan, the government led by Shehbaz Sharif and Asim Munir is known for stifling dissent without remorse. Former Prime Minister and opposition leader, PTI's Imran Khan, is behind bars at Adiala Jail, with no word on his condition for over three weeks. His family and party claim the authorities are hiding something, demanding proof of his well-being. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's (KP) Chief Minister, aligning with Imran’s family and supporters, staged an overnight protest outside Adiala Jail, irking Shehbaz's administration.
Rumors suggest that the Pakistani government is contemplating implementing Governor’s Rule in KP. A Pakistani minister hinted that Governor’s Rule is a constitutional measure to maintain administrative structure, invoked only when 'absolutely necessary.' The final decision rests with the President.
Following Chief Minister Suhail Afridi’s overnight protest outside Rawalpindi's Central Jail (Adiala Jail), Barrister Akeel Malik, the Junior Law, and Justice Minister, revealed that the government is considering Governor's Rule.
Justifying this move, Malik stated that 'serious security and governance issues' plague KP. In an interview with Geo News, Malik criticized Afridi’s administration for failing to establish a functional environment.
According to Pakistan's Dawn newspaper, 'They (the KP administration) neither coordinate with the central government nor act where needed.'
Malik reiterated that imposing Governor’s Rule is a 'last resort under the constitution’s provisions.' He insisted, 'KP’s circumstances demand measures to ensure the presence of an administrative framework.'
He noted that the central government is earnestly deliberating this option. In Pakistan, Governor's Rule, enacted upon the Prime Minister's advice, follows Articles 232 and 234 of the constitution, with ultimate authority belonging to the President.
When asked if a governor could independently recommend such a measure under Article 234, Malik confirmed it remains an option.
He stated, 'The President can initiate this step, seeking approval from Parliament's joint session afterward.' Governor’s Rule could initially last two months and be extended if needed.
Malik further alleged that KP's government plans to 'sever connections with the rest of the country.' Meanwhile, KP Governor Faisal Karim Kundi denied rumors of Governor's Rule but admitted he’d comply with party decisions.
The anticipation of Governor’s Rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has sparked public dissent, with citizens warning the government of heavy consequences.
Pakistani journalist Imran Riaz Khan cautioned, 'The PTI government in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is the establishment's lifeline. Should PTI's rule end or Governor’s Rule imposed there, remember, an uncontainable fire will ignite.'
