The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has unveiled plans to establish a Senior Citizens Club aimed at supporting people aged 58 and older. Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur made the announcement, describing it as the first government-led initiative of its kind in the region. He shared that the feasibility report and PC-1 for the project are nearing completion.
The club will initially open in Peshawar and offer a variety of services tailored to senior citizens. “We will provide free medical assistance to all members,” Gandapur stated. Additionally, the facility will feature food and beverage options, indoor games, a gym, and a salon. He also revealed plans to include residential rooms for members who wish to stay temporarily.
This announcement comes amid political tension. Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Amir Muqam criticized Gandapur, claiming the project was an attempt to rival the welfare initiatives launched by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, which focus on housing and education. Previously, the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) accused PML-N of appropriating PTI’s “Mera Ghar” housing initiative.
Meanwhile, in a shake-up within the PTI, Imran Khan, the party’s founder and former chairman, recently removed Gandapur from his role as provincial president. Junaid Akbar has been appointed as the new president of PTI’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa chapter. Sources suggest this change may be linked to internal disagreements, particularly involving Gandapur and Bushra Bibi, Imran Khan’s wife, over recent protests and rallies.
In addition, PTI leader Salman Akram Raja revealed that Imran Khan is seeking to restructure the party, particularly in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with Aliya Hamza likely to take a more prominent role in Punjab. Junaid Akbar is also expected to make further adjustments within the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa leadership.
