PTI Faces Internal Dissent Amid Rigging Allegations

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) is gearing up for a robust protest campaign following allegations of rigging in the February 8 general elections. Despite forming a 26-member committee to spearhead the agitation, internal dissent among key leaders threatens to dampen the party's efforts.

Many prominent PTI figures find themselves either incarcerated or in hiding, leading to dissatisfaction within the party ranks. Criticisms have been raised regarding the exclusion of certain 'loyal leaders' from the planning committee, with concerns that individuals who have been relatively inactive in recent protests have been given precedence.

PTI Punjab information secretary Shaukat Basra has sought to allay fears, emphasizing that all members are valued assets of the party. The PTI's activities in Punjab have been subdued since May 9, 2023, with previous attempts at agitation being swiftly quelled by law enforcement.

The 26-member committee aims to orchestrate public gatherings across Punjab, with plans to reclaim what they perceive as a 'stolen mandate' from the February elections. Despite skepticism from within the party regarding the effectiveness of the protests, the committee has already outlined a public meeting in Faisalabad under the opposition alliance.

Concerns persist over the leadership vacuum within the PTI, with doubts raised over the ability to mobilize supporters without charismatic figures at the forefront. Criticisms have been directed at central Punjab general secretary Hammad Azhar for allegedly overlooking dedicated supporters and activists.

While some leaders have expressed reservations about the committee composition, PTI remains resolute in its determination to launch a mass struggle post by-elections, aiming to unify its fragmented leadership and rejuvenate its grassroots support base.