Tug of war for KP CM’s slot in full swing

Amidst hectic efforts for formation of government in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf has been divided into two groups where one is struggling to convince party chief Imran Khan to name Pervez Khattak as the chief minister, while the other wants Asad Qaisar named for the office.

Since completion of election process, leaders of both PTI and JUI-F are engaged in hectic efforts for formation of its government. Both parties are making best efforts for mustering support of independent MPAs and other smaller political groups.

PTI leaders have already offered share to the leaders of Jamaat-e-Islami and Quami Watan Party in the coalition government, whereas the JUI-F is trying to muster support of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and others, including the JI, QWP, Pakistan People’s Party and Awami National Party.

The PTI-led coalition would comprise the JI and QWP along with a few independents, whereas the JUI-F-led coalition government would comprise the PML-N, PPP, Awami Jamhoori Ittehad and some independents.

So far the ANP is out of race as its chief Asfandyar Wali Khan already suggested free hand to the majority group in establishing its government in the province.

Pakistan Today came to know that PTI’s newly-elected MPs from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa were divided over Pervez Khattak and Asad Qaisar. The former was defeated by latter in intra-party elections for the office of provincial president recently. However, after the defeat, Khattak was later named the party’s central secretary general by Imran Khan.

According to PTI sources, Khattak is engaged in efforts for support of the JI, QWP and independent MPAs.

In this respect, he has held frequent meetings with leaders of various parties and groups. His close aide, PTI provincial Secretary General Shaukat Yousafzai is in Lahore to convince Imran Khan in favour of Khattak.

On the other hand, PTI provincial president along with his aides also reached Lahore, but is struggling to get the blessing of Imran Khan.

Sources said Asad Qaisar was also accompanied by Mohammad Atif from Mardan who was among the aspirants of the CM office.

Shah Farman, former provincial general secretary of the PTI, is also supporting Asad Qaisar for the slot.

Majority of PTI’s newly-elected MPAs are eyeing ministerial offices, which could further aggravate internal rifts in the party.