Editorial
The Peshawar High Court’s (PHC) bold directive ordering the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor to administer the oath to Chief Minister-elect Sohail Afridi by October 15 marks a crucial moment for Pakistan’s democracy. It not only restores the constitutional balance in the province but also reinforces the principle that governance cannot be held hostage to political maneuvering.
Chief Justice Atiq Shah’s ruling is a strong affirmation that constitutional continuity must never be compromised. The court rightly observed that a province cannot remain without an executive head, emphasizing that the oath-taking ceremony is not a political choice but a constitutional obligation. In case of the governor’s unavailability, authorizing the Speaker to perform the oath was a necessary safeguard against further administrative paralysis.
Follow Republic Policy YouTube
PTI’s petition rightly challenged the delay, arguing that such postponements undermine the democratic process and the people’s mandate. Former CM Ali Amin Gandapur’s confirmed resignation and participation in the election made the governor’s hesitation untenable. The PHC’s intervention thus prevented what could have become a dangerous precedent of executive obstruction.
Governor Faisal Karim Kundi’s claim that he must verify Gandapur’s resignation reflects an excessive caution bordering on political delay. The judiciary’s stance ensures that constitutional transitions proceed smoothly regardless of political differences. The PHC’s insistence on a compliance report underscores its commitment to constitutional enforcement.
Follow Republic Policy on Facebook
In a province already struggling with instability, the court’s ruling is both a moral and legal correction. It restores faith in institutions and signals that no office-holder—elected or appointed—can override the Constitution. The people’s mandate in KP must be respected, and the PHC has reaffirmed that governance must follow law, not convenience.
