Gilgit: Pakistan Peoples Party leader Amjad Hussain has officially taken oath as the new chief minister of Gilgit-Baltistan, marking a major political transition in the region.
According to Beyond Time News, Governor Gilgit-Baltistan Syed Mehdi Shah administered the oath at a ceremony attended by senior political leaders, including PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.
New government takes charge
Amjad Hussain assumed office during a formal ceremony in Gilgit.
He thanked political leaders across party lines for supporting a smooth transition.
He said the formation of a consensus government reflects political maturity in the region.
Moreover, he described the election mandate as both a responsibility and a challenge.
Key priorities announced
The new chief minister outlined major priorities for his government.
He said energy shortages, funding gaps, and economic development will remain top focus areas.
Additionally, he called for progress on Gilgit-Baltistan’s constitutional status.
He urged national leadership to move the region toward provisional provincial status.
Focus on youth, women, and development
Hussain said young people and women played a strong role in the election campaign.
He credited them for the PPP’s strong performance across constituencies.
Furthermore, he said their expectations must guide government policy.
He promised targeted programs for youth employment and women’s empowerment.
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Tourism and economic expansion plan
The chief minister identified tourism as a key growth driver.
He said Gilgit-Baltistan has unmatched natural beauty and global tourism potential.
However, he noted that poor infrastructure limits visitor access.
Therefore, he called for improved roads, air connectivity, and tourism facilities.
He also proposed visa-on-arrival for international tourists to boost arrivals.
Mining and natural resources
In addition, Hussain highlighted the region’s vast mineral wealth.
He mentioned gold, silver, gemstones, and rare earth minerals.
However, he said local communities have not benefited from these resources.
As a result, his government plans to develop a fair mining framework.
Agriculture and rural economy
Hussain also emphasized agriculture, livestock, and fisheries.
He said these sectors form the backbone of rural livelihoods.
Moreover, he announced a “One Village, One Product” initiative.
The plan aims to promote local industries and improve income generation.
Energy crisis and load-shedding challenge
The chief minister strongly addressed the region’s energy crisis.
He said Gilgit-Baltistan suffers from severe electricity shortages despite its hydropower potential.
He highlighted projects such as Harpo, Henzel, and Shagarthang for urgent completion.
Furthermore, he set a goal to end load-shedding within five years.
He also stressed that consumers must pay electricity bills to support recovery.
Funding and constitutional demands
Hussain pointed to a major financial shortfall in the region.
He said funding gaps are limiting development projects and public services.
Therefore, he urged the federal government to increase financial allocations.
He also reiterated the demand for provisional provincial status for Gilgit-Baltistan.
Strategic importance of Gilgit-Baltistan
The chief minister described Gilgit-Baltistan as a strategic gateway linking Central, South, and East Asia.
He highlighted its glaciers, water resources, and hydropower potential.
Additionally, he said the region plays a vital role in Pakistan’s water security.
He called for stronger regional connectivity with Afghanistan and Tajikistan.
Governance and reform agenda
Hussain pledged transparent and accountable governance.
He said his administration will focus on reform rather than status quo policies.
Moreover, he described Gilgit-Baltistan as a potential model for good governance in Pakistan.
He promised daily monitoring of development projects to avoid delays.
Conclusion
Amjad Hussain’s oath-taking marks the beginning of a new political phase in Gilgit-Baltistan.
His government now faces major challenges, including energy shortages, funding gaps, and governance reforms.
At the same time, he has outlined an ambitious development vision centered on tourism, mining, and infrastructure growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the new Chief Minister of Gilgit-Baltistan?
Amjad Hussain of the Pakistan Peoples Party has taken oath as Chief Minister.
What are his top priorities?
He prioritised energy reform, economic development, tourism, and constitutional rights.
Who administered the oath?
Governor Syed Mehdi Shah administered the oath in Gilgit.
What major issue did he highlight?
He highlighted severe electricity shortages and funding gaps in the region.
What constitutional demand did he make?
He urged progress toward granting provisional provincial status to Gilgit-Baltistan.
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