PESHAWAR: Shah Faisal Ilyas has resigned as Additional Advocate General of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). His resignation follows the imposition of emergency and governor’s rule in the province on October 11, 2026. He is one of three additional advocate generals reported to have resigned in protest.
According to Express News, the resignations came after President Asif Ali Zardari approved the emergency measures under Articles 232 and 234 of the Constitution. The law officers reportedly said the decision threatened democratic institutions and the constitutional mandate of the people.
Three Additional Advocate Generals Resign
An October 12 report by Express News named Ayub Khan, Alam Khan and Shah Faisal Ilyas as the three law officers who resigned.
The officers reportedly raised concerns about democratic institutions and constitutional principles. They argued that weakening elected institutions could reduce public trust in the constitutional system. They also stressed the need for state institutions and public officials to follow the Constitution.
Meanwhile, their resignations add to the legal and administrative changes in KP. The federal government has taken greater control over provincial affairs following the emergency measures. However, the report did not provide further details about the individual resignation letters.
Why Emergency and Governor’s Rule Were Imposed in KP
President Asif Ali Zardari approved the federal cabinet’s recommendations on October 11, 2026. The decision invoked Articles 232 and 234 of the Constitution.
The federal government cited worsening law and order as a reason for the move. It also claimed that the provincial administration had not provided enough support to counter terrorism.
Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar announced changes to the province’s administration. The powers of the chief minister, provincial cabinet and advisers were transferred to the governor. In addition, the government established an 11-member advisory council to help run the province.
The government also announced plans for federal oversight of 12 districts. It further announced the deployment of Pakistan Army personnel to help maintain law and order. Officials said these steps would address security concerns and improve coordination in counterterrorism operations.
However, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has opposed the decision. The party has raised concerns about provincial autonomy and the authority of elected representatives.
What Happens Next?
The resignations of Shah Faisal Ilyas, Ayub Khan and Alam Khan come as the new administrative arrangements take effect in KP. Their reported objections highlight concerns about the constitutional and democratic impact of the federal government’s decision.
Meanwhile, the federal government has said it will present the emergency measures to Parliament for approval, as required by the Constitution. However, the political dispute over the decision remains unresolved.
Further developments will depend on how the new provincial administration operates and how political and legal challenges to emergency and governor’s rule proceed.
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