Recent WhatsApp messages between Aleema Khan, the sister of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf founder Imran Khan, and PTI Secretary General Raoof Hassan have revealed significant internal conflict within the party’s leadership.
The messages, dated June 23, 2023, shed light on disagreements regarding the narrative surrounding Imran Khan’s imprisonment.
In one exchange, Aleema Khan forwarded a message allegedly from Bushra Bibi, which detailed an emotional prison visit to Imran Khan. The message contained claims of restricted prison visits and threats to Khan’s safety, and it mentioned Army Chief Asim Munir as monitoring conversations.
However, Aleema Khan instructed Hassan to suppress this information, dismissing it as “foolish” and “disinformation.”
Political analysts interpret these messages as indicative of a power struggle between Aleema Khan and Bushra Bibi. They suggest that Bushra Bibi might be attempting to manipulate public sentiment by crafting sympathetic narratives, potentially fabricating details to gain support.
Meanwhile, Aleema Khan appears to be consolidating her own influence within the party by controlling how information is managed and presented.
The leaked messages also highlight Aleema Khan’s significant role in directing party communications, given her clear directives to the Secretary General. This internal discord exposes the underlying tensions among PTI’s leadership and casts doubt on the credibility of public statements made by party officials.
The revelations underscore a broader struggle within PTI, raising questions about the authenticity of the party’s narratives and the dynamics of its leadership.
As these internal conflicts come to light, they may impact the party’s public image and its strategic direction moving forward.