Islamabad, September 3, 2025: Prime Minister’s Adviser Rana Sanaullah has revealed that the decision to continue the existing political system has been taken during a key PML-N leadership meeting in Murree, with its duration — five or ten years — yet to be finalised.
Speaking to a private TV channel, Sanaullah said the move would strictly follow constitutional provisions. “Some people had doubts about it, but we already knew. Whatever happens will be in line with the Constitution,” he asserted.
The PML-N leader also underlined the importance of consensus on national projects, particularly new dams. “Nothing is impossible. All political parties should sit together and create consensus. If a resolution has been passed, new resolutions can also be brought in the light of climate change,” he noted.
His comments came amid fresh debate on the controversial Kalabagh Dam project, triggered by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur’s recent call for its construction in Pakistan’s national interest. Gandapur argued that had even 25% of the dam’s budget been spent earlier, recent devastation could have been avoided. He pointed to ongoing provincial dam projects in Lakki Marwat and Karak and pledged further work in Peshawar.
The remarks have divided his party, the PTI. Chairman Barrister Gohar endorsed the idea of building dams — big or small — with provincial consensus, while senior leader Asad Qaiser dismissed Gandapur’s statement as his personal opinion, warning against reviving controversies and advocating smaller dams instead.
Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan has since welcomed Gandapur’s support for Kalabagh Dam, urging national consensus on water management. He called water scarcity Pakistan’s most pressing challenge and stressed that new dams are vital to prevent future crises and floods.
Touching on the broader political debate, Rana Sanaullah said PTI founder Imran Khan had long harboured ambitions of introducing a presidential system in Pakistan, but cautioned against unilateral moves. “Personally, I believe there is no space for a presidential system in the country. If something is done with consensus, it can be considered — but nothing should be imposed,” he emphasised.
Sanaullah also suggested that Gandapur should meet the PTI founder directly and persuade him to negotiate with other political parties, calling it a “positive step” toward political reconciliation.
