PTI Secretary General Salman Akram Raja confirmed the leadership change. He reiterated that the decision came directly from Imran Khan.
In a major political shift, Ali Amin Gandapur resigned on Wednesday as Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), following orders from Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan. The party has nominated Sohail Afridi as his replacement.
It is pertinent to mention that CM KP Gandapur had issued a 90-day ultimatum for Imran Khan’s release, warning of a strong response to any crackdown on PTI workers.
While PTI had already expelled five MNAs for defying party policy and issued an official notification of their removal.
Resignation Submitted to KP Governor
Gandapur submitted his resignation to Governor Faisal Karim Kundi. He stated that the CM position was a trust from Imran Khan, and he was now returning that responsibility as per Khan’s directive. Imran Khan has remained in custody since August 2023.
What Happens Next?
According to former Advocate General Aamir Javed, the KP Governor has up to 14 days to accept Gandapur’s resignation. Until then, Gandapur legally remains in office. Once the resignation is accepted, the provincial assembly must elect a new chief minister.
To become CM, a candidate needs support from at least 73 members of the KP Assembly. The voting process will determine the next provincial leader.
PTI Confirms New Leadership and Future Plans
PTI Secretary General Salman Akram Raja confirmed the leadership change. He reiterated that the decision came directly from Imran Khan. Raja expressed full confidence in Sohail Afridi, saying he is capable of leading the province and guiding federal-level discussions.
He also hinted at a broader party strategy, saying PTI plans to announce a new policy and fresh direction for KP.
No Internal Rift in PTI
Despite the abrupt change in leadership, PTI officials dismissed rumors of internal conflict. PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar said the party remains united and loyal to Imran Khan’s leadership. He emphasized that all leadership decisions rest solely with Khan.
Who is Sohail Afridi — the next KP CM?
Educational background
Afridi completed his early education from Muslim Public School, Saddar Peshawar, and obtained his matriculation from the same institution. He later studied at FC Government High School, Peshawar and earned a BS degree in Economics from the University of Peshawar.
Political journey
Afridi’s political career began in 2015, when he was elected president of the Insaf Students Federation (ISF) at the Peshawar University campus. Two years later, he rose to become ISF’s Peshawar region president, and subsequently the provincial president of ISF KP. He also headed the Insaf Youth Wing in the province, where he played a key role in reorganising youth activists.
Electoral success
Afridi entered electoral politics for the first time in the 2024 general elections, contesting from PK-70 (Khyber-II). He won the seat by a wide margin, defeating PML-N candidate Bilawal Afridi — a victory seen as a major milestone in his political career.
Ministerial responsibilities
After his election, Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur inducted Afridi into the provincial cabinet, initially appointing him as Special Assistant for Communication and Works (C&W). Following a reshuffle, he was promoted to Minister for Higher Education.
Active party role
Following the May 9, 2023, incidents, when PTI’s provincial leadership went underground, Afridi continued to maintain communication with party workers. He actively led youth-driven protests and campaigns demanding Imran Khan’s release, keeping the movement alive through social media and street mobilisation.
Personal background
Afridi comes from a family of six brothers and is the third among them. Before entering politics, he was engaged in the property business.
