PPP's Amjad Hussain Sworn In as GB CM, Unveils Reform Agenda

Bilawal Backs Constitutional Rights for GB

New Government Prioritises Energy, Tourism, Governance, Economic Growth

Staff Report

GILGIT: Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader Amjad Hussain was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) on Monday, pledging to tackle the region's longstanding challenges through governance reforms, infrastructure development, and economic revival.

The oath was administered by Syed Mehdi Shah at a ceremony in Gilgit attended by senior political leaders, government officials and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.

The new chief minister assumed office after the PPP emerged as the largest party in the June 7 GB Assembly elections, enabling it to form the regional government with political support from allied parties.

Addressing the gathering after taking the oath, Hussain described the election outcome as a strong expression of public confidence in the PPP and thanked voters, party workers, youth and women for their role in securing the party's victory.

He said the mandate carried enormous responsibility and pledged to deliver transparent, accountable and people-oriented governance. According to Hussain, Gilgit-Baltistan has the potential to become a model of good governance due to its relatively small population and administrative size, provided reforms are implemented effectively.

Constitutional Rights Among Top Priorities

Hussain identified the constitutional status of Gilgit-Baltistan as one of his government's foremost priorities, saying the region's political aspirations should advance through dialogue and constitutional reforms.

He stressed that sustainable development could not be separated from resolving the region's constitutional questions and called for continued engagement with the federal government to strengthen GB's political and administrative framework.

Addressing Energy Crisis

The chief minister acknowledged that prolonged electricity shortages remain one of the most pressing issues facing the region despite its vast hydropower resources.

He announced that his administration would accelerate work on ongoing power projects, improve oversight of energy schemes and work towards substantially reducing load-shedding during its tenure.

Hussain also urged consumers to fulfil their responsibility of paying electricity bills, saying improved revenue collection would support investments in the power sector alongside federal assistance.

Seeking Greater Federal Support

Highlighting financial constraints, Hussain said Gilgit-Baltistan requires increased federal funding to meet its development needs, improve public services and complete infrastructure projects.

He expressed hope that constructive cooperation between the regional and federal governments would help bridge funding gaps and accelerate development across the territory.

Tourism, Mining and Agriculture to Drive Growth

Presenting his government's economic vision, Hussain described Gilgit-Baltistan as one of Pakistan's most resource-rich regions with immense opportunities in tourism, mining, hydropower and agriculture.

He said the region's towering mountain ranges, glaciers, lakes and cultural heritage could attract significantly higher numbers of domestic and international visitors if transport connectivity, tourism infrastructure and conservation efforts were strengthened.

The chief minister also highlighted the economic potential of mineral resources, precious stones and agriculture, announcing plans to encourage investment, expand value-added production and improve employment opportunities in rural communities through targeted development programmes.

He further underlined Gilgit-Baltistan's strategic geographical position linking South Asia, Central Asia and China, saying improved regional connectivity could unlock new trade and investment opportunities.

Bilawal Calls for Constitutional Empowerment

PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari congratulated the new chief minister and reaffirmed his party's commitment to securing greater constitutional rights for the people of Gilgit-Baltistan.

He said the PPP would continue advocating for stronger political representation and constitutional reforms at the national level while working to build consensus among political stakeholders.

Bilawal also emphasised the importance of economic development, employment generation and protecting the rights of the people of Gilgit-Baltistan, describing the region as strategically significant for Pakistan.

Calling for a more constructive political environment, he urged political parties to work together for the welfare and development of the region instead of allowing political differences to hinder progress.

Consensus Politics

The ceremony reflected an atmosphere of political cooperation following the formation of the new government. Hussain acknowledged the support and cooperation extended by various political leaders during the government formation process and expressed hope that consensus-based politics would continue in the interest of regional stability and development.

Looking Ahead

With the new government now in office, expectations remain high for progress on constitutional reforms, infrastructure development, energy security and economic diversification.

The administration's ability to address electricity shortages, attract investment, improve governance and expand opportunities in tourism and natural resources is expected to shape Gilgit-Baltistan's development agenda over the coming years.