After 19 months in office, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has announced his resignation, following instructions from PTI founder Imran Khan. His time in power, starting in March 2024, was marked by political friction, internal party tensions, and repeated clashes with the federal government. Here’s a breakdown of the five major controversies that defined his tenure:
1. Corruption Allegations and NAB Inquiries
From his early days in office, Gandapur’s administration faced allegations of corruption. In August 2024, Imran Khan sent a stern warning from prison, showing that PTI leadership in the province would be held accountable for misuse of funds.
The most serious blow came in May 2025 when the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) reported that over Rs 30 billion had allegedly been siphoned off in Upper Kohistan through fake projects and bogus contractor withdrawals. Opposition parties and even the KP governor accused Gandapur of being involved or unable to curb massive financial misconduct.
2. Direct Dialogue with Afghanistan
Acting on Imran’s directives, Gandapur repeatedly tried to establish a direct communication channel with the Afghan Taliban government. He hinted that he would proceed unilaterally if the federal government did not allow it.
This triggered backlash from the Foreign Office and federal ministers, who reminded him that diplomacy is a federal domain. Despite his initial defiance, Gandapur later backtracked, admitting his passport was blocked and that he was anticipating for Islamabad’s approval to move ahead.
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3. Confusion and Criticism Over PTI Protests
Gandapur’s relationship with PTI supporters and the party’s core leadership became strained over his inconsistent role in protests demanding Imran Khan’s release.
During major demonstrations in Islamabad in October and November 2024, he was charged with disappearing from the scene, abandoning workers, and sending mixed signals. Bushra Bibi and PTI social media activists has criticized him, calling him unreliable and ineffective. His attempts to propose compromises—like relocating Imran under house arrest—earned little support within the party.
4. Feud with Aleema Khanum
Tensions peaked in late 2025 when Gandapur accused Aleema Khanum, Imran’s sister, of dividing the party and working with elements in the establishment. He claimed she used vloggers to campaign against him and undermine his leadership.
For months, he endured online trolling, accusations of betrayal and speculation about his replacement. Even his own cabinet members began to question his credibility and political standing.
5. Decisions Contrary to PTI’s Line
Leadership of Gandapur was often strenuous by conflicting pressures. While PTI pushed for agitation against state institutions, he struggled to balance governance and street politics. His decision to proceed with the provincial budget—despite Imran’s initial disapproval—sparked criticism from the loyalists of the party.
He was also accused of siding with the military on operations in tribal districts and failing to resist drone strikes, leading to frustration within the PTI’s ideological base.