The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) is expected to present a no-confidence motion against Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Prime Minister Anwar-ul Haq by Thursday or Friday, according to party sources.
Meanwhile, the party finalised the name of Chaudhry Yasin as its candidate for the new prime minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), sources confirmed on Wednesday.
According to details, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari gave the final approval after a detailed meeting with the party’s Azad Kashmir leadership in Islamabad. The decision comes amid efforts to bring about in-house changes in the Azad Kashmir Legislative Assembly.
Sources said the meeting was attended by senior leaders of PPP Azad Kashmir, who deliberated over possible candidates for the new Leader of the House. After thorough discussions, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari finalised Chaudhry Yasin’s name for the slot.
The PPP leadership was reportedly considering four names for the top position — Chaudhry Yasin, Latif Akbar, Faisal Mumtaz Rathore, and Sardar Yaqoob — before Bilawal made the final decision.
Formal announcement expected tonight
Party insiders revealed that the PPP will make an official announcement by tonight, confirming Chaudhry Yasin as its nominee for the position of PM of Azad Kashmir. Chaudhry Yasin, a seasoned politician and influential figure in AJK politics, is expected to spearhead the PPP’s push for greater political stability and administrative reform in the region.
On the other hand, consultations were, under way regarding formation of a new cabinet in the region. Party sources said the announcement of the cabinet was expected to be made soon after the election of the new prime minister.
The PPP reportedly enjoys a clear majority in the AJK Legislative Assembly, holding 36 votes following the support of the Pakistan Muslim League.
According to party sources, the name of the prime ministerial candidate will not be officially disclosed before the motion is tabled, as part of a strategic approach.
Communication between PPP, AJK President Mahmood
After several years, communication between the PPP leadership and AJK President Barrister Sultan Mahmood has been restored. Faryal Talpur met the AJK president at Kashmir House on Tuesday. The PPP has decided to continue recognising Barrister Sultan Mahmood as the constitutional head of the state.
Sources added that the decision has been made not to remove Barrister Sultan from the presidency. The renewed contact follows the inclusion of several members close to Barrister Sultan in the PPP.
Barrister Sultan’s son, Yasir Sultan, who is also a member of the assembly, has already joined the PPP.
Barrister Sultan Mahmood previously served as both prime minister and opposition leader of AJK under the PPP before leaving the party to join Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI).
