Since Ghauri had tendered resignation as per the policy of his party some three weeks back, Gabol wanted to takeover the affairs of the ministry of ports and shipping being the minister of state, a source confided to APP.

"But Gabol was stunned to note that there was no change in the ministry's affairs. So he was denied his right to exercise the powers of the minister. In protest to the resistance, Gabol decided to step down as he did not want to remain a ceremonial minister," added the source.

In his two-line letter sent to the prime minister, Gabol said he was stepping down as minister of state "due to personal reasons". "He also thanked the prime minister for extending him support and said it was a wonderful experience of working under the prime minister," another source informed APP.

However, Gabol told the media that he was unable to resolve the issues of the people of his constituency. Gabol, clarified that he had no political differences with his party - the Pakistan Peoples Party.

He went on to say that he would not keep the ministerial slot even if the prime minister does not accept his resignation.