The curious case of 50 'missing' PTI ministers

At least 50 ministers conspicuously absent from political front as embattled PM Imran fights for survival

ISLAMABAD:

As the crucial no-confidence motion session inches closer and uncertainty continues to shroud political alliances, at least fifty ministers belonging to the ruling party have gone ‘missing’ from the political front, sources said on Friday.

More than 50 of the federal and provincial ministers have not been seen in public since the opposition began stacking up perils against Prime Minister Imran Khan.

Sources shared that out of these ministers, 25 happen to be federal and provincial advisers and special assistants, while four of them are ministers of state, four advisers and 19 special assistants.

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The odd development comes as the deafening silence of many ruling party’s ministers is feeding the speculation that by holding their tongues - much like the allies – the ministers might be weighing other options as they await the right time.

Rock-ribbed loyalists

However, at the federal level, the embattled prime minister continues to enjoy vigorous support.

Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi, Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry, Energy Minister Hammad Azhar, Minister of Defence Pervez Khattak and Interior Minister Sheikh Rasheed are among the most vocal stalwarts who continue to propagate the government’s narrative, putting themselves at the forefront in PM Khan's defence.

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Meanwhile, in Punjab, Law Minister Raja Basharat, Minister for Local Government Mian Mahmood ur Rasheed, as well as a few others, are labouring to cement CM Usman Buzdar’s shaky political sway.

The provincial chief is also facing a troubled political terrain ahead with a chorus of estranged factions, allies and opposition leaders demanding his removal.

However, a large number of federal and provincial ministers and cabinet members remain conspicuous for their absence in times of trouble.