Reports have emerged that the Federal government has completed all administrative and security preparations to impose emergency or governor’s rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, citing political tensions and the province’s fragile law-and-order situation. According to media reports citing sources, administrative groundwork for changes involving deputy commissioners and secretaries has been completed, while lists for new appointments of regional and district police officers have also been prepared.

The options under consideration reportedly include initially imposing emergency in 12 sensitive districts of the province. Sources quoted in reports said the final decision depends on the success or failure of ongoing political talks between government and opposition delegations. Although no formal talks are taking place between the two sides, backchannel and secret contacts remain ongoing. In case these discussions succeed, the decision to impose emergency or governor’s rule may be postponed.

Meanwhile, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s central leadership has also reportedly become active in this regard. Barrister Gohar and other senior party leaders are reportedly holding a key meeting with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi today, during which the chief minister will be briefed on backchannel messages and an offer received from the federal level. The consultative meeting is expected to produce important and final decisions by the chief minister and PTI leadership regarding the strategy for the long march and possible constitutional measures by the government.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)