Even If Long March Is Averted, Establishment Has Decided CM Sohail Afridi Must Go
Introduction
According to journalist Shahzad Iqbal, despite potential resolution of the long march issue, the establishment has determined that Chief Minister (CM) Sohail Afridi must step down. However, he cautions that this move may not bring immediate benefits and could lead to significant political and administrative losses.
Analysis by Shahzad Iqbal
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Governor's Rule: Iqbal suggests that one option for the government is to impose governor's rule, but questions its ease of implementation. Governor's rule can initially be imposed for two months, renewable up to six months.
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Legal Action Against CM Afridi: Another proposed course of action is to proceed with a terrorism case against CM Afridi related to an attack on Radio Pakistan and subsequent protest (jalaa gheerao). If convicted, Afridi would be disqualified, leading to the appointment of a new chief minister.
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Political Implications: He argues that regardless of the method, someone else will become chief minister who will have to follow Imran Khan's instructions. Any showing of leniency by a new CM could lead to resistance from workers.
Media Restrictions and PTI Members
Iqbal further highlights new media restrictions, specifically banning Shafiullah Jan and Shahid Khattak from television appearances without a clear reason. He suggests these directives are coming from external sources. Additionally, he clarifies that Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) members elected as independents cannot be referred to as PTI MPs or MNAs but must be identified as independents.
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