ISLAMABAD — Minister of State for Law and Justice Barrister Aqeel Malik said on Sunday that the federal government was “seriously considering” the imposition of governor’s rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), citing what he described as severe security and governance failures in the province.
Speaking on Geo News’ programme Naya Pakistan, Malik said the KP administration under Chief Minister Sohail Afridi had “badly failed” to establish effective coordination with the Centre or take necessary administrative action in troubled areas. He claimed this lack of cohesion had created a situation warranting constitutional intervention.
“Given the current scenario, governor’s rule is being seriously considered,” Malik said. Terming it a constitutional step available in circumstances of “absolute necessity,” he noted that the option was now under active deliberation.
When asked whether the governor’s rule would be imposed after replacing incumbent KP Governor Faisal Karim Kundi, Barrister Aqeel Malik replied that the matter was at a “very nascent” stage.https://t.co/fORgjc0bOU
— Dawn.com (@dawn_com) November 30, 2025
Malik said the president could impose governor’s rule on the advice of the prime minister under Articles 232 and 234 of the Constitution. When asked about procedural requirements — specifically that under Article 234 the governor must recommend such a move — he insisted that the president could still act independently, with parliamentary approval required later.
Explaining the timeline, the minister said governor’s rule could initially be imposed for two months and extended if necessary. However, he cautioned that discussions were still at a “nascent stage” and no final decision had been made, including whether the current KP governor would remain in office if such a move were initiated.
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Malik also accused the KP government of “planning to block routes and cut off the province” from the rest of the country, citing unspecified reports. He argued that ensuring a functional administrative structure in KP was essential given the prevailing security environment.
Governor Says He Is Unaware of Removal Reports
Earlier in the day, KP Governor Faisal Karim Kundi denied having any knowledge of media reports suggesting he may be replaced ahead of a possible imposition of governor’s rule.
Asked about claims that several names were being considered for the post, Kundi appeared visibly surprised. “Now if the media will appoint the governor, then may God have mercy on us,” he remarked. He added that he would accept “whatever decision will be taken by the leadership” of his party, the PPP.
Reports about his potential removal have circulated for weeks, but Kundi has repeatedly dismissed them. He met Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif last week to discuss KP’s political and administrative challenges, including the possible imposition of governor’s rule.
According to officials familiar with the meeting, the prime minister expressed confidence in Kundi and gave no indication of replacing him.
