Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan’s recent call for civil disobedience has taken the party’s leadership by surprise, with many deeming it impractical. Internal discussions within the party’s WhatsApp groups reveal widespread reservations about the feasibility and timing of the announcement.
Party sources disclosed that senior PTI leaders, including Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, Secretary General Salman Akram Raja, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, and Asad Qaiser, learned about the decision through Imran’s post on “X” (formerly Twitter). Leaders argue that it is unrealistic to expect overseas Pakistanis to halt remittances or for citizens to stop paying utility bills.
“This is simply not actionable,” remarked a source, adding that even PTI lawmakers risk disqualification if they participate in such acts of civil disobedience. A senior leader expressed concerns about the advice being given to Imran, stating it was harmful to both the party and its founder.
The November 24 protest call, similarly issued without consulting party leadership, had caused significant dissatisfaction among senior members. While leaders had sought a meeting with the jailed Imran to discuss their concerns, they were denied access by authorities.
PTI leader Ali Muhammad Khan stated that the party leadership plans to meet with Imran for further guidance on the civil disobedience call. In the meantime, a committee established by the founder will begin its work.
