Fawad Chaudhry questions PTI leadership over Imran Khan's fate

In the midst of internal discord within the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), former federal minister Fawad Chaudhry has emphasised the unlikely prospect of party founder Imran Khan's release under the current PTI leadership.

Addressing the recent turmoil in a video posted on his official Facebook page, Chaudhry expressed discontent over the party's political strategy and its implications for its members. 

He highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by imprisoned leaders, including Imran Khan, despite recent statements from PTI leaders suggesting a turnaround in the party's fortunes.

Criticism from PTI leadership regarding the loyalty of those who departed after the May 9 incidents, where violent protests erupted following Imran Khan's arrest, prompted a response from Chaudhry. 

He underscored the continuing difficulties faced by PTI figures like Yasmin Rashid and Ejaz Chaudhry who remain incarcerated.

Furthermore, he questioned the efficacy of the current PTI leadership, particularly under Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, for their perceived lack of substantive action beyond commentary on legal verdicts affecting jailed PTI members.

The former federal minister advocated for a leadership change within PTI, suggesting figures like Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Pervaiz Elahi, and Asad Qaiser as potential replacements. 

He urged the party leadership to abandon what he termed as unrealistic expectations regarding the imminent release of Imran Khan through legal battles.

The timing of Chaudhry's remarks coincided with reports of internal fragmentation within PTI, with 21 lawmakers allegedly exploring the formation of a forward bloc due to dissatisfaction with the current leadership's inability to secure Imran Khan's release.

Earlier resignations from key PTI positions, including that of Secretary-General Omar Ayub Khan, further underscored the growing discontent within the party's ranks.

Chaudhry's stance on these issues has not been well-received by PTI leadership, as evidenced by statements from Information Secretary Raoof Hasan, who expressed skepticism about the return of former party members who had left during challenging times.

As the situation evolves, the PTI faces significant challenges in managing internal dissent and maintaining its political cohesion amid ongoing legal and political pressures.