In an effort to calm growing tensions within his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan has instructed Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur and his sister Aleema Khan to refrain from making public remarks against one another.
The directive was conveyed by PTI Senator Ali Zafar, who briefed reporters outside Adiala Jail after meeting the imprisoned former prime minister on Thursday.
Senator Zafar explained that Imran Khan has summoned CM Gandapur to Adiala Jail the same day for a meeting, stressing that the summons was not a reprimand but part of an effort to resolve differences.
He clarified that there had been no discussion about removing Gandapur from his position and reaffirmed that the KP chief minister retained full authority to make administrative changes. However, Zafar underscored Khan’s position that such disagreements should not be voiced publicly, as they only fuel speculation and division within the party.
Zafar also revealed that Imran Khan has nominated Mahmood Khan Achakzai to act as the opposition leader in parliament until PTI leader Omar Ayub’s legal cases are resolved. This nomination reflects Khan’s strategy to maintain party coherence and strengthen parliamentary presence despite ongoing internal challenges.
In addition, the PTI founder has reorganised his team of coordinators responsible for handling legal matters and meetings. Duties previously held by Niazullah Niazi and Intazar Panjutha have been withdrawn, and a new four-member team has been appointed to streamline coordination and provide legal assistance more effectively.
The developments come against the backdrop of escalating tensions between Gandapur and Aleema Khan. Earlier, the KP chief minister released a video message warning Imran Khan about vloggers allegedly attempting to create divisions within PTI by projecting Aleema Khan as a future party chairperson and even prime minister.
Gandapur accused Aleema of not only refusing to restrain these vloggers but also of supporting their campaign. He further alleged that columnist Hafeezullah Niazi, a relative of Imran Khan, was publishing articles reinforcing this narrative.
The rift highlights the sensitive dynamics within PTI at a time when its leadership faces mounting political and legal pressures. Imran Khan’s intervention reflects his bid to project unity, prevent further internal discord, and maintain party discipline.
