Pakistan federal government defends governor’s rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

The Pakistani federal government and legal supporters are defending the imposition of governor’s rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) as a constitutional mechanism for managing severe internal crises. Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar and other officials argue the move is not martial law but is supported by Articles 232 and 234 of the 1973 Constitution, which allow for federal intervention during security threats or when a provincial administration fails to function according to the law.

Federal authorities cite a surge in terrorist attacks and allege that the provincial administration failed to cooperate with federal security agencies. They further claim provincial resources were used to facilitate political marches toward the federal capital. Under this measure, the powers of the KP Assembly transfer to the federal Parliament, with the rule initially set for two months and capped at a maximum of six months.

In contrast, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan has termed the decision illegal and unconstitutional. He accused the government of using counter-terrorism measures to target his party and removing an elected government that had secured a mandate. Gohar stated that the government’s actions, including the imposition of Section 144 and the replacement of deputy commissioners, are fueling resentment and damaging Pakistan’s international image.