Shafaqna Pakistan: Internal divisions within the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) surfaced publicly after a tense exchange between Imran Khan’s sister, Aleema Khan, and the party’s Information Secretary, Sheikh Waqas Akram, in a WhatsApp group, prompting both to leave the group shortly afterwards.
According to sources, the dispute was triggered by remarks made by Sheikh Waqas Akram during a television interview when he was asked about reports that Imran Khan’s sisters had been denied a meeting with the jailed PTI founder, while only one sister had been granted access.
Responding cautiously, Sheikh Waqas said he had not spoken directly with Aleema Khan and was therefore unaware of the details surrounding the reported meeting.
He said Aleema had herself made her position public and that, beyond that, he was unaware of the matter.
However, he added that Bushra Bibi’s daughter and sister-in-law (bhabi) had been allowed to meet her, implying that the offer for meetings with Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi existed, albeit on terms set by the authorities.
According to sources, Aleema Khan took exception to Sheikh Waqas Akram’s response and used the main WhatsApp group, created to coordinate efforts and strategies for Imran Khan’s release, to vent her frustration.
Taking a dig at Sheikh Waqas Akram, Aleema wrote: “I am sure you find it amusing but if you can understand the family’s pain about our brother’s health.”
She alleged that if party leaders could not secure Imran Khan’s release, they should not expect the family to abandon its efforts to secure his freedom.
She further accused many within the PTI of siding with Imran Khan’s enemies against his family. Aleema wrote that they would restore their lawful right to meet him and would also secure his freedom.
Sheikh Waqas Akram then responded to the messages directed at him.
Acknowledging the unmatched sacrifices made by Imran Khan, he reminded Aleema that many PTI workers and leaders were enduring the same pain in light of those who had died and those who remained behind bars because of Imran Khan’s struggle.
Sheikh Waqas further wrote that the position he had expressed during the television programme, as well as in other talk shows, reflected the party’s position and also her point of view. He wrote that he had been explaining the party’s stance long before Babar Awan.
According to sources, Aleema Khan subsequently exited the WhatsApp group. Sheikh Waqas Akram also later left the group.
Speaking to The Express Tribune without denying the development, Sheikh Waqas Akram said Aleema Khan was his elder and that disagreements could occur anywhere. He said there were no misgivings on his part.
Responding to a question about Noreen Niazi’s reported meeting, he said he was not aware of it.
Source: Express Tribune
