MUZAFFARABAD, AZAD KASHMIR:
A significant political development has unfolded in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) with the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) nominating Faisal Mumtaz Rathore for the position of Prime Minister. This nomination comes at a critical juncture where political stability and addressing core public issues are paramount in the region.
Faisal Mumtaz Rathore belongs to a prominent political dynasty; he is the son of the late former Prime Minister of AJK, Mumtaz Hussain Rathore. Born on April 11, 1978, in Rawalpindi, his ancestral roots trace back to the remote Haveli Kahutta district, situated near the Line of Control (LoC).
Political Trajectory and Public Acclaim: Rathore is widely regarded as a leader who, much like his father, easily connects with the masses and represents the middle class. His grassroots popularity was evident when he played an active role in the recent negotiation process during the influential Public Action Committee movement. After completing his early education in Rawalpindi and graduating from Punjab University, he ventured into active politics.
Electoral Success and Party Trust:
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He first contested elections from LA-17 Haveli Kahutta in 2006.
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After joining the PPP in 2011, he was elected as a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for the first time.
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He secured his second MLA seat in the 2021 elections. Following his success in the 2023 elections, he became part of Chaudhry Anwar ul Haq’s cabinet and served as the head of the Negotiation Committee for the Public Action Committee.
Faisal Mumtaz Rathore is counted among the most trusted confidantes of the PPP Chairman, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, and Madam Faryal Talpur. His nomination signifies the full confidence of the party’s high command. The central question remains whether he will be able to fully meet the expectations and aspirations of the people of AJK during his short tenure.
