PTI accepts Omar Ayub's resignation

Salman Akram Raja appointed as secretary general

ISLAMABAD:

Opposition Leader in the National Assembly Omar Ayub announced on Saturday that PTI founder Imran Khan has accepted his resignation as the party's secretary general, which he had tendered for the second time.

In a post on the social media platform X, Ayub stated, "I am most grateful and indebted to PM Imran Khan sahib that he has accepted my resignation letter dated Sept 4, 2024."

He clarified that the resignation was conveyed through Opposition Leader in the Senate Shibli Faraz during his visit to meet the imprisoned PTI founder at Adiala Jail on September 5.

Ayub also recalled that his first resignation, submitted on June 22, "was not accepted."

Explaining his reasons, he cited the overwhelming burden of his roles, stating that managing his duties as opposition leader, secretary general of PTI, and his legal battles, along with his responsibilities to his constituency, was "a tremendous workload."

He assured his commitment to continue as a dedicated PTI worker under Imran Khan's leadership, reiterating his support for the upcoming Islamabad rally, and expressing optimism that it would be a "resounding success."

"Wishing the new secretary general all the best. I will work closely and tirelessly with the new secretary general for PM Imran Khan Sahib and PTI, God-willing," Ayub said.

Meanwhile, party sources indicate that Salman Akram Raja has been appointed as the new secretary general, taking over Ayub's former role.

The PTI founder has also restructured the party's administrative functions, with Omar Ayub and Senator Shibli Faraz leading parliamentary affairs, while Raoof Hassan will head the party's think tank.

The restructuring aims to streamline the party's operations and delegate responsibilities more effectively.

It is pertinent to note that this is Ayub's second resignation, the first coming in June when PTI's parliamentary party had urged him to continue amid internal tensions and reports of dissatisfaction within the ranks.

Ayub had initially cited the strain of additional responsibilities as the reason for his resignation.

In his resignation letter, dated September 4, Ayub acknowledged the lessons learned under Imran Khan's "dynamic leadership," and highlighted the hardships endured by the PTI family, commending their resilience.

He also mentioned the challenges of balancing his various duties and concluded that another individual should take over the role of the secretary general to "prepare PTI for the elections."

Despite stepping down from key positions, including as chairman of PTI's Central Finance Board, Ayub reiterated his commitment to "work for PTI as a worker as per the ideology you have given PTI and Pakistan."

Raoof likely to be replaced

In a related development, PTI Information Secretary Raoof Hasan is expected to be removed from his position, according to party insiders.

Sources reveal that following Ayub's resignation as secretary general, another shakeup in the party leadership is imminent.

Imran Khan has reportedly approved Hasan's removal, with some party leaders having expressed a lack of confidence in his performance.