MUZAFFARABAD: In a surprising political development, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Minister for Information Mazhar Saeed Shah has resigned from his position, citing unavoidable personal reasons.

The announcement was made during a press conference in Muzaffarabad, where Mazhar Saeed formally declared his decision to step down from the information ministry.

“I am resigning due to unavoidable circumstances,” he said, expressing gratitude to the media community and the staff of the Information Department for their cooperation during his tenure.

Mazhar Saeed, who served as Information Minister during a politically sensitive period in AJK, stated that he remained steadfast in fulfilling his responsibilities and always prioritized national interests and public welfare.

Referring to recent administrative and security operations, he said, “During Operation Banyan Marsous and other critical matters, Allah granted us success and honor.” He emphasized that he had performed his duties “in accordance with the country’s needs and the interests of the Kashmiri people.”

Highlighting his diplomatic efforts, Mazhar Saeed added that he had raised the issue of Kashmir alongside Gaza before the international community. “We presented the case of Gaza and Kashmir before representatives from 45 countries and ensured that the voice of oppressed people reached the global stage,” he remarked.

While Mazhar Saeed did not elaborate on the exact reasons behind his resignation, political observers in Muzaffarabad suggest that internal differences within the cabinet and strategic policy disagreements might have played a role in his decision.

His resignation has sparked speculation about a possible reshuffle in the AJK cabinet, as the Information Ministry plays a crucial role in shaping the region’s public narrative and media engagement strategies.

Senior government officials, meanwhile, acknowledged Mazhar Saeed’s contributions, describing him as a dedicated and articulate spokesperson who effectively represented AJK’s position on multiple national and international forums.

The AJK government is expected to appoint a new information minister in the coming days. However, Mazhar Saeed’s departure marks another chapter in the evolving political landscape of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, where cabinet transitions often reflect broader policy realignments and governance challenges.