Imran Khan’s detention triggers internal conflicts over party positions

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) faces growing internal conflicts as its leader, Imran Khan, serves time in custody. The situation has led to public disagreements over the allocation of party positions and tickets. This turmoil highlights the challenges PTI faces without Khan’s direct leadership.

Raoof Hasan now exclusively speaks on policy matters for PTI. The party struggles to maintain unity as disagreements surface over ticket distributions and leadership roles. Despite efforts to promote unity, tensions remain high within PTI, even after recent elections.

As Imran Khan remains behind bars, PTI witnesses rising internal discord. The absence of Khan exacerbates these issues, leading to widespread embarrassment for the party. PTI leaders expressed their frustration due to limited communication with Khan, detained in Adiala Jail. Concerns arise over the potentially biased or incomplete messages from Khan, relayed by lawyers.

To bridge the communication gap, PTI Chairman Gohar Ali Khan appointed Raoof Hasan as the policy spokesperson. However, the allocation of National Assembly tickets sparked disputes. Accusations of nepotism and ticket sales for hefty sums came to light, particularly from Advocate Sher Afzal Marwat and Sheikh Rashid Ahmed.

The party faced further division when Barrister Ali Zafar’s candidacy for chairmanship led to criticism. This prompted Marwat to halt his campaign activities. Disagreements also surfaced over the cooperation with the federal government, as suggested by former speaker Asad Qaiser.

The Senate ticket allocation, especially for Mirza Mohammad Afridi, drew criticism from within PTI. Afridi defended his selection amid backlash over PTI’s response to violent protests in May 2021.

Despite the visible rifts, Raoof Hasan denies internal conflicts, emphasizing the normalcy of personal opinions in politics. He maintains that Imran Khan remains the definitive authority on party matters, with designated spokespersons facilitating communication. 

With leadership disputes and disagreements over party positions, PTI attempts to navigate through this tumultuous period. Despite claims of unity, the internal strife underscores the difficulties in maintaining cohesion without Khan’s active involvement.