PTI
The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) removed a statement made by former first lady Bushra Bibi on Friday after it sparked significant backlash from government officials.
In a video message released on Thursday, Bushra Bibi alleged that her husband, former prime minister Imran Khan, had begun receiving calls from former army chief General (retd) Qamar Javed Bajwa after his visit to Medina, where he went barefoot as a gesture of respect.
She further claimed that these calls were linked to efforts to dismantle the Sharia system, implying a threat to Khan’s advocacy for Islamic law.
These remarks were strongly denied by General Bajwa, who clarified in a conversation with journalist Mohammad Malick that no such calls were ever made following Khan’s visit to Saudi Arabia.
The comments also drew sharp criticism from the government, with Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar condemning them as an attempt to score “petty political points.” Dar expressed regret that such allegations could undermine Pakistan’s relationship with a key ally like Saudi Arabia.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also issued a stern response, labeling the remarks as an “unforgivable crime.” Speaking at a ceremony, he stated, “Any hand that becomes an obstacle in the friendship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, the nation will break those hands.”
Amid this controversy, the PTI leadership distanced itself from Bushra Bibi’s comments. According to party insiders, concerns were raised over the potential diplomatic fallout and the impact on PTI’s political objectives.
Sources revealed that the party has advised Bibi to consult its leadership before issuing any statements and has decided to limit her involvement in political activities, including the November 24 protest.
Bushra Bibi reportedly tried to send a message to her husband through lawyer Mishal Yousafzai, but permission to meet Khan was denied.
In response to the internal and external pressure, Khan has reportedly instructed that Bushra Bibi stay away from political matters, signaling the party’s intent to avoid further controversies involving her.
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