PTI Removes KPK Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, Nominates Sohail Afridi as SuccessorIn a significant shake-up within Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), party founder Imran Khan has reportedly ordered the removal of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, paving the way for Muhammad Sohail Afridi to take over the role. This decision comes amid escalating internal tensions and criticisms of Gandapur’s leadership, including allegations of aligning with military interests and failing to adhere to party directives. Sources close to PTI indicate that the move was finalized during recent consultations, with Imran Khan, currently imprisoned, emphasizing the need for renewed focus on the party’s core agenda of justice and anti-establishment reforms.

Gandapur, who assumed office following PTI’s strong performance in the 2024 elections, has faced mounting scrutiny for his handling of key issues, such as protests against drone strikes and judicial independence. Critics within the party, including exiled journalist Adil Raja, have accused him of betraying Imran Khan’s vision by prioritizing personal or external alliances over grassroots mobilization. Raja’s social media commentary has repeatedly labeled Gandapur as a “Sweet Boy” influenced by the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), suggesting his tenure was marked by compromises that undermined PTI’s resistance against the military-backed government.

Sohail Afridi, an MPA from the Khyber district, emerges as a fresh face in this transition. Elected as an independent with PTI backing in 2024 from the PK-70 constituency, Afridi is seen as a loyalist committed to Imran Khan’s ideology. His nomination has been confirmed by senior PTI figures like Salman Akram Raja, who stated that Gandapur’s resignation is imminent, allowing Afridi to assume charge swiftly. This shift is expected to bolster PTI’s position in KPK, a stronghold for the party, amid ongoing national protests and legal battles.

The ouster highlights deeper rifts in PTI, exacerbated by external pressures from the military establishment under Army Chief Asim Munir. Analysts suggest this could be a strategic pivot to reinvigorate the party’s base, but it risks further fragmentation if not managed carefully. Gandapur’s removal also aligns with persistent calls from dissidents like Raja, who has warned of internal betrayals eroding PTI’s credibility.

As Pakistan’s political landscape remains volatile, this development underscores the challenges facing opposition parties in navigating military influence and internal dynamics. PTI supporters are watching closely to see if Afridi can deliver on promises of accountability and reform in KPK.