President takes PM into confidence over AJK political situation

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  Politics and Government on Sun, Oct 26th, 2025 by The News International

Ahsan Iqbal: A seasoned politician in the PML‑N fold

Ahsan Iqbal, a veteran of the PML‑N, has served in various capacities in the federal cabinet, including as Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development. His appointment as the head of the committee signals the seriousness with which the prime minister is treating the Kashmir dispute. Iqbal’s experience in handling delicate political matters and his strong network within the party’s ranks are expected to help forge consensus with the PPP.

The committee’s composition reflects a balanced representation of the party’s parliamentary bloc. Rana Sanaullah, a member of the National Assembly who has previously served as Minister for Tourism and Cultural Affairs, is known for his moderate stance on Kashmir-related issues. Amir Muqam, the party’s national spokesperson, brings a strong communication strategy to the negotiations.

The PPP delegation

The PPP delegation, led by its federal secretary and seasoned campaigner, has been in talks with the committee since the committee’s formation. The PPP’s stance on the Kashmir issue has always been nuanced; while the party acknowledges the complexity of the dispute, it has called for an inclusive dialogue that respects the rights of all Kashmiris. The PPP delegation has requested a more structured negotiation format, including a roadmap that defines the roles of the federal government, AJK’s elected representatives, and the Kashmiri people themselves.

Political background and the importance of AJK

Azad Jammu & Kashmir, while officially part of Pakistan, has a unique status and its own elected assembly. The province’s political landscape is dominated by two major parties: the Pakistan Muslim League (N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party. Historically, both parties have advocated for the resolution of the Kashmir issue, though their approaches have differed. AJK’s people are concerned about the lack of direct representation in the Pakistani National Assembly and the lack of economic development compared to other provinces. In 2019, the government announced a new “Kashmir Development Plan” aimed at boosting infrastructure, education and health services, but the implementation has been uneven.

The current political climate is also influenced by the recent resignation of the chief minister of AJK and the ensuing power vacuum. Several parties have pledged to provide stability and an inclusive political platform. The new committee’s mandate is not only to engage the PPP but also to ensure that any decision reflects the will of AJK’s electorate.

The process: A new framework

According to the prime minister’s statements, the committee will draft a framework that outlines the key issues: representation in the federal legislature, the status of the provincial assembly, the integration of security forces, and the protection of human rights. The committee will also seek to clarify the legal status of the residents of AJK, many of whom have faced discrimination in employment and public services.

One of the crucial points raised by the committee is the need for a “constitutional solution” that incorporates both the federal law and the AJK constitution. The committee believes that a negotiated settlement would involve a federal law that recognizes AJK’s unique status while ensuring that the rights of its citizens are upheld.

Expected outcomes

The immediate goal of the committee is to create a consensus with the PPP on a preliminary agreement that will be presented to the AJK Assembly for ratification. If the PPP and PML‑N can agree on a set of principles, the next step will involve the federal cabinet and the President of Pakistan. Ultimately, the prime minister hopes to achieve a lasting solution that prevents future conflicts and enhances stability in the region.

Why this matters

The Kashmir dispute has long been a source of tension between Pakistan and India, as well as a domestic issue that affects Pakistan’s internal politics. The new committee’s formation and its dialogue with the PPP are seen by many analysts as an attempt to bring the two major political parties to a common ground, thereby reducing the political friction that can fuel unrest. Moreover, this initiative signals the federal government’s willingness to involve local leaders in decision‑making, a move that could strengthen democratic practices in AJK.

In summary, the PML‑N committee chaired by Ahsan Iqbal, which includes Rana Sanaullah and Amir Muqam, is now in talks with the PPP to devise a comprehensive and constitutional solution for Azad Jammu & Kashmir. This process is a pivotal step in Pakistan’s ongoing efforts to address the Kashmir dispute in a manner that incorporates the perspectives of all stakeholders, fosters political stability, and ultimately aims to secure a peaceful future for the region.