Internal Discord Erupts in PTI Over Aleema Khan's Public Remarks
Severe resentment has surfaced within the senior ranks of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leadership following sharp public criticism from Aleema Khan, the sister of incarcerated former prime minister Imran Khan. In a recent media interaction, Aleema accused top party leaders of mishandling her brother's health issues and legal cases, a move that has sparked significant internal backlash and raised questions about party unity.
Aleema Khan's Accusations and Party Reaction
Aleema Khan, along with her two sisters, publicly lambasted the PTI leadership for allegedly keeping the family uninformed about Imran Khan's health matters. She specifically targeted lawyers within the party, excluding Salman Akram Raja, questioning their absence in court and accusing them of failing to properly pursue cases for the PTI chief. "Where are those senior lawyers who were given party tickets?" she demanded, highlighting her frustration over perceived negligence.
Furthermore, Aleema revealed that PTI Chairman Gohar Ali Khan and other leaders had been in contact with Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi regarding Imran Khan's treatment, but the family was not made aware of these discussions. She challenged the leadership to disclose the names of participants in a conference call with Naqvi, mentioning Gohar and at least one other politician, and criticized unfulfilled promises about shifting Khan to a hospital.
PTI Leadership's Response and Defense
In response, PTI Chairman Gohar Ali Khan admitted to the conference call with Naqvi during a press interaction on Thursday, confirming that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi was also part of the discussion. He asserted that the family had been kept updated on minute-by-minute developments concerning Imran Khan's health negotiations with the government.
Gohar strongly defended the party's lawmakers, expressing pride in their dedication despite facing numerous legal cases and significant business losses due to their PTI affiliation. He emphasized that these legislators had rejected lucrative offers, including ministries, parliamentary committee chairmanships, and amnesty in cases, to remain loyal to Imran Khan. "I believe from the bottom of my heart that they are working for Khan saheb and would do so," he stated, urging the family to avoid unnecessary criticism that could demoralize the party.
Internal Concerns and Future Implications
Several PTI leaders, speaking anonymously, expressed deep disappointment over Aleema Khan's attitude, viewing her criticism as a political maneuver aimed at consolidating her influence within the party and potentially overtaking it. They argued that her remarks have not only damaged PTI's reputation but also demoralized parliamentarians grappling with legal challenges.
A senior PTI leader indicated that the issue might be resolved through a meeting with Imran Khan in jail, expressing hope that he would sideline Aleema from party affairs, as he has historically kept family members at a distance from political operations. This internal conflict underscores ongoing tensions within PTI as it navigates leadership challenges and external pressures.
