Speculation rises over KP governor’s exit: Who may take charge next?

ISLAMABAD: Speculation is intensifying over the possible removal of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi as top officials closely watch developments in the federal capital. According to initial reports, six potential candidates are under consideration, with the federal government reviewing both political and administrative options for the key constitutional post.

The political figures being discussed include Amir Haider Khan Hoti, Aftab Sherpao and Pervez Khattak, all of whom have previously held prominent positions in the province and continue to wield influence in KP’s political landscape.

On the administrative side, the names of retired military officers Lt Gen Khalid Rabbani, Lt Gen Ghayur Mehmood and Lt Gen Tariq Khan have surfaced. Lt Gen Ghayur Mehmood and Lt Gen Tariq Khan have both served as Inspector General Frontier Corps, while Lt Gen Khalid Rabbani is a former Peshawar Corps Commander– experience that places them among strong contenders for the governorship.

As consultations continue within the federal leadership, uncertainty remains over who will ultimately be selected. However, the emerging list indicates the government’s inclination toward a blend of political balance and security expertise. The final decision is expected to shape the province’s future administrative direction.

Meanwhile, governor Kundi said that he is not aware of any plan to impose governor’s rule in the province.

He emphasised that protests or meetings cannot resolve the issues of the province or the country, and maintaining law and order is the responsibility of the provincial government.

He added that the constitution of Pakistan does provide for governor’s rule, but the topic was not discussed during his recent meeting with the PM Shehbaz and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto. He added that he does not know what will happen tomorrow and cannot comment further.