In a significant political shift, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has appointed Junaid Akbar as the new president of the party in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), replacing Ali Amin Gandapur. This change was confirmed by PTI’s Secretary General, Salman Akram Raja, following a decision by the party’s founder, Imran Khan. The announcement came on January 25, 2025.
Ali Amin Gandapur, who is also the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, requested the replacement due to his increasing responsibilities in governance. As Chief Minister, Gandapur faces several challenges, especially concerning law and order in the province. With these important duties demanding his full attention, he made the decision to step down from his role as PTI president in KP. Despite this shift, Gandapur will continue his work as Chief Minister, focusing on the governance and administrative issues of the province.
Salman Akram Raja, while speaking outside Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi, explained the reasoning behind the change. He mentioned that due to Gandapur’s heavy workload as Chief Minister, it was necessary to appoint a new leader in KP. As a result, Junaid Akbar, who is currently serving as a Member of National Assembly (MNA), was chosen to take on this new role in the party.
Junaid Akbar’s new position as PTI president in KP comes shortly after his election as Chairman of the National Assembly’s Public Accounts Committee (PAC). This position had remained vacant since the February 2024 general elections. Akbar’s election to the PAC was unanimous, with several senior PTI leaders expressing support for his candidacy. Among them were Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, Opposition Leader Omar Ayub Khan, Senator Shibli Faraz, and many other influential members of the party.
Upon accepting his new role as PTI president in KP, Junaid Akbar expressed his gratitude. In a post on social media platform X, he emphasized his humble background, describing himself as a middle-class individual who earned his position through hard work. He contrasted his journey with the leadership styles of other political parties, highlighting the value of dedication and effort.
Junaid Akbar also spoke to the media, underscoring PTI’s resilience in the face of political challenges. He reassured supporters that the party remains strong and determined to fulfill its mission. “Don’t mistake our good intentions for weakness,” Akbar said. He made it clear that PTI will continue working to bridge the gap between the public and institutions, refusing to be intimidated or pressured by any external forces. This firm stance reflects PTI’s unwavering commitment to its goals.
In addition to Akbar’s promotion, Salman Akram Raja hinted at a significant role for another PTI member, Aliya Hamza, in the party’s future. Raja shared that Imran Khan wants Aliya Hamza to play a larger role within the party. The details of her new position will be decided in a future meeting.
With Junaid Akbar now leading PTI in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the party is poised to strengthen its position in the province. As political dynamics continue to shift in the region, PTI is looking to further consolidate its leadership structure and face the ongoing challenges with determination and unity.
This change in leadership marks a new chapter for PTI in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and with Junaid Akbar’s experience and commitment, the party aims to continue its path of growth and success in the province.
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