DERA ISMAIL KHAN: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi on Saturday said that it was an internal matter of the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) to replace the chief minister.

Speaking to reporters here, he, however, said there was no indication of an immediate change in the provincial government.

“Only PTI can better explain a possible change in the government, noting that some elements within the PTI appeared to favour such a move,” he added.

Responding to rumours about former chief minister Ali Amin Gandapur’s possible return to the office, Mr Kundi dismissed the speculation, saying such expectations were unrealistic.

He alleged that once the party leadership identified elements of disloyalty within its ranks, action was taken accordingly.

He also claimed that some individuals were themselves circulating reports of contacts with other political parties, adding that those who had once parted ways with PTI were unlikely to return.

Mr Kundi maintained that Dera Ismail Khan had emerged as a stronghold of the PPP, with the highest number of elected representatives in the province belonging to the party.

He said the party was holding workers conventions across the province, with events already held in Malakand and more being planned in Peshawar and other divisional headquarters. He added that efforts were underway to form a coalition government in the province.

On a question about a meeting between a former senator and JUI-F leader Maulana Asad Mahmood, the governor said political interaction between politicians were a routine.

Referring to development projects, Mr Kundi said work on an international airport in Dera Ismail Khan and a lift canal project was under process.

He said the airport scheme would be presented in an upcoming board meeting, alleging that certain elements were attempting to obstruct it.

He added that the lift canal project was nearing completion and would be inaugurated soon. He said a plan to widen the Indus Highway would soon be launched to improve connectivity.

Published in Dawn, May 3rd, 2026