CM KP Backs Kalabagh Dam, New Provinces & Presidential System

Islamabad – Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has voiced support for the construction of the controversial Kalabagh Dam, the creation of new provinces, and a presidential form of government in Pakistan.

During an informal discussion with senior journalists, Gandapur stated, “A presidential system should be implemented if required. Imran Khan also supports presidential governance and would win nationwide if he runs for president.”

The CM argued that smaller provinces lead to better governance, noting that most countries operate with smaller administrative units. “Pakistan is the only country running with just four provinces despite its large population,” he said.

On the Kalabagh Dam, Gandapur said only the Awami National Party (ANP) opposes it in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. “Those who say the dam will be built over their dead bodies are playing politics. I believe the state should be prioritized over politics,” he added.

Addressing the events of May 9, he reiterated that PTI founder Imran Khan was not responsible. “One seeks forgiveness when they’re at fault. The real apologies should come from those who violated our rights and dignity,” he said, pointing fingers at political opponents and parts of the establishment.

On relations with the military, Gandapur clarified, “I am an elected political leader and make decisions independently. The military does not interfere in my province’s administrative matters, though they do cooperate on law and order.”

He also expressed concern over his inability to meet Imran Khan since April 2. “If I were allowed to meet him, I could play a constructive role. I will urge him to initiate dialogue with political leadership,” he said, highlighting the lack of accurate information reaching Khan in prison.

Read more: Kalabagh Dam is Crucial for the State, Says KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur

Gandapur added that negotiations with the establishment had nearly reached a solution but stalled. He stressed that direct meetings with the PTI founder would help resolve many issues and that Khan had delegated some political decisions to the party committee.

“I will try to convince Imran Khan to open the door for dialogue. He is not getting proper information in jail,” Gandapur said.

PPP Strongly Rejects Kalabagh Dam Proposal

The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has reacted sharply to Gandapur’s support for the Kalabagh Dam. PPP Sindh President Nisar Khuhro said Sindh, Balochistan, and even KP had already rejected the dam.

“The KP Assembly has passed a resolution against Kalabagh. By supporting the dam, Gandapur is insulting the assembly,” Khuhro said. He questioned Gandapur’s awareness of the dam’s political and historical sensitivity, suggesting he may not have even been active in politics when the resolution was passed.

Khuhro warned that the people of Sindh are deeply protective of the Indus River and their water rights. “We will never accept Kalabagh Dam. It is a conspiracy to turn Sindh barren,” he declared.

The PPP leader also criticized PTI for failing to complete major water projects like Diamer Bhasha and Mohmand Dams during its tenure. “They couldn’t build those dams despite taking loans. Kalabagh is just another political stunt,” he added.

Khuhro said the dam debate exposes PTI’s true intentions. “Now their real face has been revealed,” he said.