Governor intervenes to call K-P Assembly

Opposition leaders made request so that female, minority MPAs could take oath

PESHAWAR:

Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Governor Haji Ghulam Ali has invoked his special powers to convene a provincial assembly meeting after the speaker refused to administer the oath to newly appointed women MPAs on reserved seats. In a rare move, the governor directed the assembly secretary to convene the session, scheduled for Friday afternoon at 3 o’clock. This marks the first instance of Governor Ghulam Ali utilizing his special authority to call an assembly session.

The decision to call a provincial assembly meeting stems from the speaker’s refusal to administer the oath to newly appointed women MPAs on reserved seats. Governor Ghulam Ali’s intervention reflects the urgency to address this issue, highlighting the importance of upholding democratic principles and ensuring the representation of marginalized groups within the legislative framework.

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This move, however, has wider implications beyond the immediate context of oath-taking. It symbolizes a broader power struggle between the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)-led provincial government and the federal government, led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The rift between the two entities has become increasingly evident, with instances of political maneuvering and deliberate distancing observed in recent events.

One such instance occurred during Prime Minister Shehbaz’s visit to Peshawar, where K-P Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur notably abstained from official functions. This deliberate act of defiance highlights the underlying tension and lack of cooperation between the provincial and federal authorities.

It suggests a deep-seated discord that extends beyond ideological differences, posing significant challenges to effective governance and intergovernmental relations.

The implications of this rift are far-reaching, potentially impacting governance structures and public welfare initiatives in the region.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 21^st, 2024.