Faisal Rathore enjoys support of PML-N as PPP consolidates position in AJK
The Azad Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly is set to hold a critical vote today on a no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Chaudhry Anwarul-Haq. The special session, scheduled for 3 pm, will be chaired by Speaker Chaudhry Latif Akbar.
The resolution seeking Haq’s removal was submitted to the assembly secretariat last Friday. The PPP has nominated Faisal Rathore for the top slot, who also enjoys support from the PML-N. While the PML-N backs the motion, the party has chosen not to join the government, instead sitting on the opposition benches.
Security and Assembly Preparations
Security measures have been significantly tightened around the Assembly Secretariat, Ministers’ Block, and Prime Minister’s Secretariat. Only lawmakers and secretariat staff will have unrestricted entry, while media personnel will require official passes. All assembly members are expected to enter the House together, ensuring order during the high-stakes vote.
Political Context and Party Positions
The no-confidence motion is part of the PPP’s strategy to consolidate its political position in AJK following President Asif Ali Zardari’s roadmap unveiled last month. The party formally submitted the motion last week with the required signatures, and assembly rules mandate that a vote date be fixed within three to seven days. Once scheduled, the session cannot be adjourned until the vote is held.
Political consultations in Islamabad have intensified ahead of the vote. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Zardari held meetings discussing the expected change in AJK governance and a proposed power-sharing formula. PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and senior PML-N leaders also participated in these consultations.
Numbers Game and Opposition Strategy
With the PML-N’s support, the PPP-led camp reportedly holds a high-30s majority in the 52-member AJK Assembly, well above the simple majority required to remove Anwarul-Haq. However, the PML-N has clarified that while it supports the motion, it will not back the PPP nominee, positioning itself strategically ahead of the July 2026 elections.
Prime Minister Anwarul-Haq, meanwhile, has rejected calls to resign and stated he will face the vote on the floor of the House. He continues to conduct official meetings at his residence and has dismissed speculation about stepping down.