ISLAMABAD (Dunya News) – The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has nominated Faisal Mumtaz Rathore as its candidate for Azad Kashmir prime minister.
Speaking to the media in Islamabad, PPP leader Raja Pervaiz Ashraf said the party always makes decisions through mutual consultation. He said a no-confidence motion has been submitted, and the PPP will form the government in Azad Kashmir.
He added that Azad Kashmir is very close to the PPP’s heart, and the party will strive to bring ease to the people of Kashmir.
“We are in a position to form the government. We have the required numbers, so we do not need anyone’s support,” he said.
PPP Azad Kashmir President Chaudhry Yasin said that Shaheed Benazir Bhutto always prioritised the Kashmir issue, and President Asif Ali Zardari also raised the right to self-determination of Kashmiris at every forum. “PPP and Kashmir share a deep bond,” he added.
He said the PPP’s position in Azad Kashmir is very strong, and the party made this decision after reviewing the current political situation. “Forming a government in Azad Kashmir is not a bed of roses but a crown of thorns,” he remarked.
He added that the party has decided to make Faisal Rathore the prime minister. “We have the numbers to form the government. We have 27 votes, and if PML-N members join, the total will reach 40.”
Later, Raja Pervaiz Ashraf said that Faisal Rathore is an educated and experienced young leader. He added that the PPP will move forward in Kashmir like a rock and resolve issues with consultation.
He also noted that Bilawal Bhutto fought a diplomatic battle worldwide over the Pahalgam incident.
He said Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has also announced support for the people of Kashmir. “Pakistan currently has a coalition government, and we will file the no-confidence motion today,” he stated.
Raja Pervaiz Ashraf added that voting on the motion will take place on Monday.
Meanwhile, Azad Kashmir Prime Minister Chaudhry Anwarul Haq has decided not to resign and to fully contest the no-confidence motion.
Profile of Faisal Mumtaz Rathore
Faisal Mumtaz Rathore, born on 11 April 1978 in Rawalpindi, is a senior leader of PPP Azad Jammu & Kashmir and a multi-term Member of the AJK Legislative Assembly. He currently serves as Secretary General of PPP AJK and is known for his organisational strength and political maturity.
Belonging to a prominent political family, Rathore inherits a strong democratic legacy—his father having served as prime minister, speaker, opposition leader and senior minister in AJK. His family’s role as founding members of PPP AJK gives him deep insight into the Kashmir cause and the Pakistan–AJK relationship.
Rathore has held important portfolios, including Minister for Electricity and Minister for Local Government & Rural Development, giving him practical experience in governance and development. His time on both treasury and opposition benches adds balance to his political understanding.
Trusted by the central PPP leadership, he is respected for his calm, consensus-driven style. He has led key negotiations, including heading the committee engaging with the Awami Action Committee. His experience on national media has further enhanced his communication and public engagement skills.
Overall, Rathore combines political legacy, legislative experience, executive competence, organisational leadership and a moderate temperament—qualities that make him a strong and suitable candidate for the next Prime Minister of Azad Jammu & Kashmir.