In a dramatic display of party discipline, Ali Amin Gandapur has resigned as Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Chief Minister on the direct instruction of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan, clearing the path for party stalwart Sohail Afridi to be elected as the new provincial leader with 90 votes amidst a complete opposition boycott.

During the provincial assembly session, Gandapur confirmed his departure, stating he stepped down the moment he received the directive from his party’s leader. He expressed pride in proving his allegiance, adding, ‘Our party, our decision, our majority – and above all, our leader’s command.’ The outgoing chief minister characterized the current situation as a “fight for democracy” and urged that no delaying tactics be used in selecting his successor.

Speaker Babar Saleem Swati, who chaired the session, endorsed the resignation, declaring it constitutional and in accordance with the law. He asserted that all procedures for the chief minister’s election were being carried out as per constitutional requirements, emphasizing that ‘the constitution cannot be driven by individual wishes.’

Following the Speaker’s ruling, the voting process for the new provincial head began. Assembly bells were rung to call members to the chamber, after which PTI lawmakers cast their votes for the new candidate. The entire electoral process was conducted without the participation of the opposition, who boycotted the proceedings.

After the count concluded, Sohail Afridi was declared the victor, having secured 90 votes, well above the 73 required for a majority. His election marks a significant political development in the governance of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.