In a strategic move ahead of a planned protest, PTI founder Imran Khan designates Gohar Khan, Salman Akram Raja, and Omar Ayub as his official representatives

In a bold move aimed at clarifying the flow of information concerning his political activities, PTI founder and former Prime Minister Imran Khan has appointed three key spokespersons. The decision, announced on November 18, is seen as a response to the need for clearer, more centralised communication within his party ahead of an impending protest that promises to make waves across the country.

The individuals appointed to speak on Imran Khan’s behalf are Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, the PTI Chairman; Salman Akram Raja, the party’s Secretary General; and Omar Ayub, the Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly. According to a notification issued by PTI, all information regarding the party founder will now be exclusively channelled through these three representatives, marking a new phase in the party’s communications strategy.

The decision comes just days before PTI is set to mobilise supporters for a mass protest, which is expected to draw significant public and media attention. With such a high-profile event on the horizon, the leadership of PTI is clearly focused on controlling the narrative and ensuring that statements and updates related to Imran Khan’s activities are clear, consistent, and unified.

By centralising communication through Gohar Khan, Salman Akram Raja, and Omar Ayub, PTI hopes to avoid the confusion and inconsistencies that have sometimes characterised its messaging in the past. The move is aimed at providing a single, authoritative voice for the party, particularly in times of political turbulence.

For Gohar Khan, this new role adds another layer to his influential position within the party. As Chairman of PTI, he has long been considered a trusted ally of Imran Khan, known for his legal expertise and ability to navigate the complex political landscape. Meanwhile, Salman Akram Raja, as the party’s Secretary General, holds a pivotal position in managing PTI’s internal affairs, making him a key figure in shaping the direction of the party’s messaging. Omar Ayub, who has consistently been at the forefront of PTI’s opposition to the government, brings a wealth of experience in dealing with the media and political rivals alike.

Together, the trio will be responsible for communicating all matters related to Imran Khan, effectively becoming the face of his political discourse. This centralisation of communication reflects PTI’s growing need to manage its message during a time when public perception is increasingly important.

The appointment of these spokespersons is not just about managing day-to-day communication; it’s a strategic move to reinforce Imran Khan’s public image as a leader who is steadfast in his convictions and prepared to face challenges head-on. With the party set to hold demonstrations and rallies in the near future, the trio of spokespersons will be key in ensuring that PTI’s voice remains coherent and focused.

PTI’s planned protest is set against the backdrop of ongoing political tensions in Pakistan. Imran Khan’s relationship with the ruling government has been fraught with conflict, and the party’s recent activities have garnered both support and criticism. In this charged environment, the need for clear, authoritative communication has never been more pressing.

While the spokespersons will handle most of the media queries related to Imran Khan, the decision to appoint them also comes with the understanding that PTI is looking to address potential public confusion and provide a more streamlined approach to its messaging. The party’s leadership recognises the importance of presenting a united front, especially during high-stakes political moments.

Moreover, the decision highlights PTI’s growing organisational maturity. As the party navigates the complexities of Pakistani politics, it appears to be learning from past mistakes in terms of public relations and media strategy. By ensuring that all communications are filtered through these trusted figures, PTI is signalling that it is ready to move forward with a more professional approach to political messaging.

Imran Khan’s move to appoint a team of official spokespersons is not only a reaction to the looming protest but also a broader indication of his evolving political strategy. By empowering trusted allies to represent him publicly, he is laying the groundwork for a more disciplined and coordinated approach to navigating the turbulent waters of Pakistani politics.

As PTI braces for the upcoming protests, the new spokespersons will be under considerable pressure. Their ability to manage media relations effectively and maintain the party’s narrative will play a critical role in how PTI’s messages resonate with the public and political stakeholders alike.