Peshawar (News Desk): The political uncertainty in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa took a decisive turn today as the Peshawar High Court (PHC) announced its reserved verdict on the oath-taking of the province’s newly elected Chief Minister.
Chief Justice of the PHC ruled that Governor Faisal Karim Kundi must administer the oath to Chief Minister-elect Sohail Afridi by 4 pm tomorrow. The court further clarified that if the Governor fails to do so, the Speaker of the KP Assembly will be authorized to conduct the oath-taking ceremony, ensuring that the constitutional process is not delayed any further.
Background of the Case
The matter reached the court after the Governor sought clarification regarding the resignation of former Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur. Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) filed a petition, arguing that Gandapur’s resignation had already been confirmed on the assembly floor, clearing the way for the election of a new Chief Minister.
During the hearings, PTI’s counsel Salman Akram Raja emphasized that under the Constitution, once a new Chief Minister is elected, the oath-taking cannot be obstructed. He argued that any delay in this process undermines the democratic mandate of the assembly.
Governor’s Position
Governor Faisal Karim Kundi, who was out of the city, told the media earlier that he never refused to administer the oath. He maintained that his stance was only about ensuring constitutional compliance. He has since confirmed that he is returning to Peshawar to fulfill his responsibilities.
Political Reactions
Despite Sohail Afridi’s clear majority win in the KP Assembly, the delay in his swearing-in had created political ambiguity. The absence of a formal notification regarding the dissolution of the previous cabinet further fueled speculation.
Meanwhile, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, speaking from Karachi, urged the Governor to immediately proceed to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and fulfill his constitutional duty. He even suggested that the Sindh Chief Minister provide his official plane to facilitate the Governor’s timely arrival in Peshawar.
What Happens Next
With the PHC’s clear directive, all eyes are now on Governor Faisal Karim Kundi. If he administers the oath as ordered, the political deadlock in KP will come to an end. However, if he fails to do so, the Speaker of the Assembly will step in, setting a rare precedent in the province’s political history.
The decision has not only reaffirmed the supremacy of the Constitution but also highlighted the judiciary’s role in ensuring smooth democratic transitions in Pakistan.