ISLAMABAD: The federal government is weighing several options to address the worsening situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), including possible action under Article 234 of the Constitution, sources said.
According to sources, the government is considering asking the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) to withdraw the date announced for its proposed long march without conditions.
Sources said that if PTI declines to withdraw the protest schedule, the government may consider invoking Article 234 in the province.
Articles 232 and 234 of the Constitution provide for emergency measures and other constitutional steps, including provisions relating to provincial governments, under specific circumstances.
Federal Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar said an emergency could be imposed in KP if constitutional requirements and circumstances warranted such action.
“The Constitution is clear about the imposition of an emergency. If it is required in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, it should be imposed and it will be imposed,” Tarar said.
Meanwhile, KP Governor Faisal Karim Kundi said the federal government does not opt for governor’s rule willingly, describing it as a measure of last resort.
He said any decision regarding governor’s rule would be taken after careful consideration by the federal government and the president.
Kundi expressed serious concern over the law and order situation in KP and said young doctors, nurses and police personnel from FATA and PATA were currently on strike.
“The government should first resolve the problems of its own province,” the governor said.
