The ongoing PTI leadership rift escalated further as senior leader Azam Swati voiced strong support for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur. Swati defended Gandapur’s role, calling him the “founder’s chief minister,” and urged silence for those causing internal conflict, saying they must be dealt with “if we have to save the country.”
Internal Tensions on the Rise
Gandapur’s recent remarks, reportedly about his personal-level talks with the establishment, sparked backlash within PTI. Senior PTI MNAs—Asad Qaiser, Shahram Tarakai, and Atif Khan—demanded an official inquiry into his statements, warning that such comments could derail the party’s movement for the release of Imran Khan and other detained members.
These MNAs stressed that the focus should be on restoring governance and justice, not issuing controversial statements. They expressed concerns that Gandapur’s words could damage PTI’s public image and unity.
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Central Leadership Tries to Contain Fallout
In an attempt to prevent further division, Aleema Khan and Salman Akram Raja reportedly instructed party leaders to refrain from making public statements.
Tarakai emphasized that PTI’s priority should remain the release of its founder and other imprisoned leaders. He warned that internal disputes would only benefit opponents and weaken the movement’s momentum.
Swati Clears the Air, Supports Dialogue
Meanwhile, Azam Swati clarified his position in a public statement, denying false media reports attributed to him regarding Imran Khan. He took an oath on the Holy Quran, affirming that he did not spread misinformation.
Swati explained that in 2022, Imran Khan had entrusted him with the task of initiating dialogue with the then-army chief. He said that his attempts to open communication channels—through the army chief’s teacher and former president Arif Alvi—were made with full consent from the PTI founder but ultimately failed.
Gandapur’s Spokesperson Defends His Leadership
In response to criticism, Gandapur’s spokesperson described him as not only “Amin” by name but also a true trustee of the PTI founder and the people. The spokesperson highlighted Gandapur’s active role when others “disappeared,” praising his courage during protests and his inclusive approach in awarding election tickets to grassroots workers.
He asserted that if Imran Khan trusted any leader unconditionally, it was Gandapur.
Friction Over Atif Khan’s Appointment
The rift took another turn when Gandapur allegedly opposed Atif Khan’s appointment as PTI Peshawar region president. Sources revealed that Gandapur claimed to have removed Atif due to poor performance on Imran Khan’s orders. However, Atif was reinstated, triggering further friction.
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