The Pakistan government is reportedly considering imposing governor’s rule or emergency in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), as the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) begins a long march towards Islamabad demanding the release of jailed party founder and former Prime Minister Imran Khan.
KP Chief Minister Sohail Afridi began the march from Lakki Marwat on October 4 after talks between the PTI and the federal government ended without agreement. The march later reached Karak district, around 256 kilometres from Islamabad.
KP Governor Faisal Karim Kundi said emergency measures could be considered if necessary to protect the province. He later met Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi in Peshawar to discuss the political and security situation.
According to reports, federal authorities have raised concerns over security and counterterrorism measures in KP. Government representatives have accused the PTI-led provincial administration of not cooperating sufficiently on counterterrorism efforts. The PTI, however, has sought greater consultation between the federal and provincial governments on security-related decisions.
The talks reportedly broke down over several issues, including counterterrorism measures, the proposed march, and PTI demands for a meeting with Imran Khan and assurances regarding his medical treatment.
The possibility of governor’s rule or emergency in KP has been discussed previously. Federal ministers had earlier warned that the government could consider legal options if the PTI proceeded with its Islamabad march.