ISLAMABAD, Feb 11 (APP): Former Governor of Gilgit-Baltistan, Ex Chief Minister, former Leader of the Opposition and several ex Ministers, along with other prominent political leaders, on Wednesday announced their decision to join the Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP).
The announcement was made during a press conference at the residence of IPP President and Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan, who warmly welcomed the new entrants and presented them with the party flag.
Those who joined IPP include former Governor of Gilgit-Baltistan Raja Jalal Hussain Maqpoon, former Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan, former Leader of the Opposition Captain Shafi, former Ministers Fateh Ullah Khan, Shamas Ullah Haq, Haji Shah Baig and Dilshad Bano. Khan Akbar Khan, Maulana Sultan Raees and Eemaan Shah also included in those who announced their inclusion in the Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party.
Addressing the press conference, Abdul Aleem Khan expressed best wishes towards the newly inducted leaders and stated that the IPP is formally entering the political arena of Gilgit-Baltistan for the first time. He emphasized that the people of the region deserve equal opportunities for development, prosperity and employment. He added that Gilgit-Baltistan is rich in immense natural resources and tourism potential, which, if properly developed, could generate billions of dollars in foreign exchange and transform the region into the “Switzerland of Pakistan.”
He reiterated the Party’s commitment to prioritizing employment opportunities for youth and improving the economic conditions of the local population.
Abdul Aleem Khan further stated that the Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party will run a vigorous election campaign in Gilgit-Baltistan and present its manifesto before the masses. He clarified that the Party’s objective is not merely political participation but to bring practical change to the destiny of the region through concrete measures. The party leadership reaffirmed its commitment that public welfare, particularly the sustainable development of Gilgit-Baltistan, will remain its top priority and that every possible effort will be made to honor the public’s trust.
On this occasion, leaders of the like-minded group from Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf who joined IPP, including former Governor Raja Jalal Hussain Maqpoon and former Chief Minister Haji Gulbar Khan, expressed full confidence in the leadership of Abdul Aleem Khan. They stated that the IPP is playing an effective role in the progress and stability of the country and is committed to the genuine representation of the people of Gilgit-Baltistan.
Minister of State and senior IPP leader Aun Chaudhry, Parliamentary Secretary Gul Asghar Baghur, IPP Punjab President Rana Nazir Ahmed Khan, General Secretary & MPA Shoaib Siddiqui along with other central and provincial leaders, were also present on the occasion.