PM Rathore Focuses on Governance, Justice, and Growth in Series of Strategic Meetings

ISLAMABAD (News Desk) – April 4, 2026: In a series of high-level engagements and political developments today, the Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), Faisal Mumtaz Rathore, reaffirmed his government’s unwavering commitment to grassroots development, judicial transparency, and the strengthening of democratic institutions. From welcoming a massive influx of new members into the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) to engaging with regional delegations and celebrating the achievements of the overseas diaspora, the Prime Minister’s activities underscored a comprehensive vision for a prosperous and empowered AJK.
Political Expansion: A New Chapter for PPP in Haveli

In a significant political development, the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) witnessed a major boost in the Haveli District as dozens of prominent political and social figures formally announced their joining of the party. The new entrants, representing the areas of Sheikh Soli, Kahuta, and Kalali, expressed their full confidence in the leadership of Prime Minister Rathore and the performance of the current administration.
Welcoming the group, which included Sheikh Shakeel Ahmed Advocate, Nazakat Hussain, and Muhammad Jamil among many others, the Prime Minister emphasized that the PPP remains the sole symbol of struggle for the rights of the common man.
> “The PPP is a party built on the sacrifices of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto. Our core ideology is to empower the marginalized and ensure that the fruits of democracy reach every doorstep,” PM Rathore remarked.
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He noted that the record-breaking development in Haveli—including the establishment of the Danish School, Haveli University, the construction of 56 kilometers of paved roads, and the installation of grid stations and hydroelectric projects—serves as a testament to the government’s “people-friendly” policies. The Prime Minister paid rich tributes to the party’s founding leaders, noting that the current journey of prosperity is a continuation of their historic mission.

Grassroots Governance: Meeting the West Mandhar Delegation

Later in the day, Prime Minister Rathore hosted a delegation from West Mandhar, led by Advocate Khawaja Manzoor Lone. The meeting served as a vital bridge between the executive and the local community, focusing on specific infrastructure and social needs of the underdeveloped region.

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The delegation, which included figures such as Khawaja Khurshid Lone and Khawaja Tariq Lone, submitted a formal charter of demands including:
* The construction of a two-kilometer arterial road in West Mandhar.
* The establishment of a dedicated Girls High School to boost female literacy.
* The creation of a Union Council office to streamline local governance.
The Prime Minister assured the delegation that these “legitimate demands” would be addressed on a priority basis. He reiterated that his administration is utilizing all possible resources to bridge the gap between urban and rural infrastructure, ensuring that no region is left behind in the race for modernization.

A Call for Justice: The Rafaqat Gujjar Case

Addressing a sensitive matter of public concern, the Prime Minister provided a firm assurance regarding the Rafaqat Gujjar murder case. During his discussion with the West Mandhar delegation, he emphasized that justice delayed is justice denied.
He directed the relevant law enforcement and investigative institutions to complete a transparent and expedited inquiry into the murder. “Our government stands with the victimized family. We will ensure that the rule of law prevails and that those responsible are held accountable under the full weight of the law,” he stated.

Global Connectivity: Honoring the Overseas Diaspora

Recognizing the vital role of the Kashmiri diaspora, Prime Minister Rathore extended his heartfelt congratulations to Maruf Azam Richial on his election as the President of the UK-Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
The Prime Minister described the appointment as a “source of pride” for the entire overseas Pakistani and Kashmiri community. He lauded overseas citizens as the “best ambassadors” of the nation, highlighting their indispensable contribution to the country’s economy through remittances and investment.
He expressed high expectations that under Mr. Richial’s leadership, bilateral trade and investment opportunities between the United Kingdom, Pakistan, and Azad Kashmir would flourish, creating new avenues for economic synergy and industrial growth.
A Vision for the Future
Reflecting on his recent return from Umrah, for which the visiting delegations offered their congratulations, the Prime Minister appeared energized in his resolve to accelerate the pace of governance. He noted that in a short period, his government has worked tirelessly to restore public confidence in the political process.
Summary of Key Development Initiatives Mentioned:
| Project Category | Specific Achievements/Goals |

| Education | Danish School, Haveli University, Proposed West Mandhar Girls High School |
| Infrastructure | 56km Paved Roads in Haveli, Proposed 2km Road in West Mandhar |
| Energy | Grid Stations and Hydroelectric Power Projects |
| Governance | Establishment of Town Committees and Union Council Offices |
Prime Minister Rathore concluded his address by reiterating that the journey of development and public service is far from over. He vowed to dedicate all available energies to meet the expectations of the people, treating the entire state—and specifically the “home-like” district of Haveli—with the care and priority it deserves.
“We are not just building roads and buildings; we are building a future where every citizen of Azad Jammu and Kashmir feels empowered, secure, and prosperous,” the Prime Minister concluded.
List of Notable New PPP Entrants (Haveli):
Sheikh Shakeel Ahmed Advocate, Nazakat Hussain, Muhammad Jamil, Karamat Hussain, Abdul Waheed, Muhammad Faisal, Muhammad Aqeel, Shahzeb Kasher, Muhammad Asif, Muhammad Sajid Hussain, Muhammad Ishaq, Fidaul Haq, Muhammad Waseem, Maqsood Hussain, Muhammad Ashfaq, Muhammad Latif, Muhammad Zahoor, Zeeshan Irshad, Mahmood Hassan, Waqar Hanif, Sajjad Hussain, Muhammad Sarfraz, Saddam Hussain, Talib Hussain, Muhammad Imtiaz, Muhammad Qasid, Kashif Hussain, Muhammad Kazim, Waqas Ahmed, Muhammad Fayyaz, Maqbool Hussain, Afnan Karamat, Waqas Bashir, Mudassar Bashir, Muhammad Khurshid, Muhammad Afaq, Sajawal Hassan, Sayyab Ahad, Muhammad Manzoor, Saqib Ali, Muhammad Siddique, Muhammad Khaliq, Muhammad Nasir Siddique, and Muhammad Shakoor.