July 19, 2025 | Peshawar
In a rare show of unity, both the ruling party and opposition in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) have joined forces ahead of the Senate elections to block dissident PTI candidates. Key opposition parties including JUI-F, PML-N, and PPP have aligned with the provincial government to ensure the success of their joint panel of candidates.
According to sources, both sides have devised a strategic plan involving seven voting panels—four managed by government ministers and three supervised by opposition parliamentary leaders. Lawmakers will be grouped and directed to vote in an organized manner for general, women, and technocrat seats.
Sources revealed that lawmakers from the ruling party will be gathered at the Chief Minister’s House and escorted to the assembly in groups under ministerial supervision. The opposition will follow a similar method with its voting panels.
Both CM Ali Amin Gandapur and Opposition Leader Dr. Ibadullah will personally oversee the voting process. In a coordinated effort, votes required for opposition candidates will be supplied from government benches to ensure all 11 agreed-upon candidates secure victory.
To prevent any foul play, it has been mutually agreed that if any vote is cast in favor of rebel candidates, an immediate joint investigation will be launched. Both government and opposition leaders have pledged accountability for any defection or cross-voting.
Key leaders from PTI’s central leadership are expected to be present at the KP Assembly during the election, along with senior opposition figures.
Opposition sources expressed confidence in the government’s commitment and strategy, saying, “We are satisfied with the measures taken, and we hope the process will remain smooth, leading to the successful election of all 11 candidates.”
In case of any complaints or violations, immediate reporting to the Chief Minister and Opposition Leader has been agreed for swift action.
