In a bold assertion of constitutional authority, Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi has declined to immediately summon the provincial assembly’s budget session scheduled on Friday stressing that he would not act under political pressure. Defending his stance, the Governor emphasized that while he was legally bound to respond within 14 days, there was no obligation to comply instantly especially, under what he termed undue influence from the Chief Minister or other quarters. 

A significant legislative standoff has emerged in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as the provincial government prepares to present its budget today (Friday). The confrontation centers around the calling of the provincial assembly session, with the Governor and the Chief Minister at odds over constitutional procedure and authority. 

The chief minister has sent a summary to the Governor requesting to convene the assembly's budget session, but Governor Faisal Karim Kundi has chosen not to return the summary immediately, leading to a delay in scheduling the session. Speaking on the matter, Governor Kundi confirmed receiving the summary and stated, “According to the Constitution, I am obligated to sign the summary within 14 days.

There is no requirement for me to sign it today.” He added that all constitutional and legal requirements would be fulfilled before any decision is made. “I am not bound to sign the summary today under any pressure or threat,” the Governor asserted. “I will not sign under any kind of coercion from the Chief Minister or anyone else.”

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)