Several senior leaders from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) like-minded group have announced their decision to join the Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP), marking a significant political development, particularly in Gilgit-Baltistan.
The announcement was made during a press conference held at the residence of IPP President and Federal Minister Abdul Aleem Khan in Islamabad.
Among those who joined the party were former Governor of Gilgit-Baltistan Jalal Hussain Maqpoon, former Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan, and former Leader of the Opposition in the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly Captain Shafi.
Former ministers Fathullah Khan, Shamsullah Haq, Haji Shah Baig, and Dilshad Bano also announced their inclusion in the IPP. Other political figures from Gilgit-Baltistan, including Khan Akbar Khan, Maulana Sultan Rais, and Iman Shah, also joined the party.
Minister of State and senior IPP leader Aun Chaudhry, Parliamentary Secretary Gul Asghar Baghur, IPP Punjab President Rana Nazir Ahmed Khan, and General Secretary Shoaib Siddiqui were also present on the occasion.
Aleem Khan’s Remarks
Speaking to the media, Abdul Aleem Khan said politics was not new to him and that the party would fully support its new members in Gilgit-Baltistan.
He stated that Gilgit-Baltistan possesses significant economic potential, particularly in the tourism sector, which could generate billions of dollars in revenue. He added that one of the party’s primary goals would be to provide tax relief to the people of Gilgit-Baltistan.
Aleem Khan further said that the party would present its manifesto to the people of the region and seek their mandate in the upcoming political process. He also indicated that the constitutional status of Gilgit-Baltistan would be discussed.
