The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) held a meeting of its political committee where members openly voiced concerns about deviation from the party founder's directives during the recent Islamabad protest.
According to sources, the committee expressed serious reservations about the decision to stage a protest at D-Chowk instead of Sangjani, as directed by party Founder Imran Khan. Members questioned why the leadership's instructions were disregarded, reflecting a clear divide within the party.
“Why were the PTI founder’s directives not implemented?” committee members reportedly questioned, stating that Imran Khan had given a call for Islamabad, not D-Chowk.
The sources said that the meeting also agreed to pursue legal action on the alleged deaths of PTI workers and resolved to demand the formation of a judicial commission to investigate the deaths of party workers and security personnel. The meeting also discussed the future strategy of the PTI, the sources added.
Also Read: PTI’s peaceful sit-in to continue until Imran Khan’s orders: Gandapur
Later, a core committee meeting was held under the chairmanship of PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar, where members reviewed the outcomes of the protest and negotiations with the government. The committee expressed sorrow and regret over the loss of security personnel and workers during the demonstrations.
Earlier on Wednesday, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur strongly condemned the government's alleged use of live bullets against the PTI party workers. He accused the government of fascism and oppression against the PTI over the past two and a half years.
Addressing a press conference in Mansehra, Gandapur claimed the PTI was a peaceful party dedicated to the rule of law, protection, and the promotion of true democracy for the younger generation.
Also Read: 954 protesters held, 210 vehicles and weapons seized: IGP Rizvi
"We are peacefully demanding our legitimate rights, but instead of being heard, we face repression," he insisted. He expressed frustration over the lack of justice from the courts and the disregard for the sanctity of parliament. "Whenever we talk about holding a meeting or protesting, we are not allowed," he added.
Gandapur specifically pointed to the PTI's recent attempts to hold peaceful protests, including the sit-in at D-Chowk in Islamabad, which he said had been met with violent suppression.
Addressing a press conference, Islamabad Inspector General of Police (IGP) Ali Nasir Rizvi said that in a joint operation, the police and Rangers arrested 954 protesters in three days, including 610 yesterday alone. Moreover, 210 vehicles and a large number of weapons were seized.
He further said 71 law enforcement officers were injured, including 52 just on Tuesday. Of these, 27 were shot at and three Rangers personnel martyred. The financial losses due to the protests are in billions of rupees, he added.
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