Gandapur Refutes Resignation Rumours, Reaffirms Loyalty to Imran Khan

PESHAWAR – August 4, 2025:
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has categorically denied reports suggesting that Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan has sought his resignation, calling the claims “baseless” and a part of a campaign to destabilize the party’s leadership in the province.

Speaking to media on Sunday, Gandapur emphasized that he holds office with the full confidence of Imran Khan, who appointed him chief minister following PTI’s electoral mandate in the province. “I am here because the PTI founder has confidence in me […] This is his government and his mandate,” said Gandapur.

The statement comes a day after media reports, citing unnamed sources, claimed that the jailed PTI leader had expressed dissatisfaction with Gandapur’s handling of the law and order situation and allegedly suggested he step down if unable to restore peace.

However, the KP Chief Minister’s spokesperson, Faraz Mughal, dismissed the reports, stating no credible communication had been received from Imran Khan to that effect. “The KP government represents the vision of PTI’s founding chairman. Whenever the founder asks, the chief minister will step down,” he clarified.

Mughal also noted that Gandapur has not been allowed to meet Imran Khan in Adiala Jail, despite court orders permitting such visits. “Even though court orders exist, constitutional and legal norms are not being followed,” he said.

Highlighting the government’s initiatives to tackle security challenges, Mughal pointed to the formation of tribal jirgas at the regional level to combat terrorism. “The chief minister is actively working to ensure law and order in the province,” he added.

Imran Khan Not Leaving the Country, Says Gandapur

Addressing speculation about Imran Khan’s alleged plans to leave Pakistan, Gandapur termed such claims as “propaganda” pushed by political opponents. “He [Imran] never expressed any desire or thought about going abroad. These are just baseless assumptions and tactics used to harm the movement,” he stated.

Gandapur further accused PTI’s political rivals of orchestrating misinformation campaigns. “Those involved in conspiracies are not aligned with the PTI founder but with his enemies,” he asserted.

The chief minister reiterated the importance of dialogue over force, saying, “Operations are not a solution. We’ve conducted them before without success.” He called for improved diplomatic ties with Afghanistan and emphasized the need for public trust in state institutions. “If we don’t openly talk about problems, small ailments turn into cancer,” Gandapur warned.

He concluded by stressing that harmony between the government, institutions, and citizens is essential for national stability and progress.

Read more: KP Govt Responds to Imran Khan’s Call for Gandapur to Resign