PESHAWAR: A sharp exchange of messages in a WhatsApp group of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) parliamentary party has exposed growing tensions between Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi and former chief minister Ali Amin Gandapur. The confrontation unfolded ahead of a key parliamentary party meeting, highlighting divisions within the provincial leadership.
The exchange reflected increasing mistrust among senior party figures as they prepared for internal consultations. Moreover, the messages circulated quickly among lawmakers, intensifying debate over unity and discipline within the party ranks.
Afridi Warns of Attempts to Undermine Parliamentary Meeting
Chief Minister Sohail Afridi urged lawmakers to ensure full attendance at the upcoming meeting. In his message, he warned that certain individuals were attempting to disrupt the parliamentary gathering and weaken the party’s position.
“There are people both inside and outside the party who do not want this parliamentary meeting to succeed,” Afridi wrote. Furthermore, he claimed that some figures were falsely asserting support from 27 MPAs while allegedly planning moves against the PTI-led provincial government.
He also asserted that no effort could destabilize the government in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. In addition, Afridi challenged his critics, stating that political attempts against him would fail.
Gandapur Questions Allegations and Calls for Clarity
In response, former chief minister Ali Amin Gandapur rejected the remarks and questioned the ambiguity of Afridi’s statements. He argued that indirect references created confusion and undermined trust within party ranks.
“Why don’t you name those you are talking about?” Gandapur asked, stressing that loyalty to PTI founder Imran Khan could not be judged through accusations alone.
Moreover, he emphasized that only the party leadership had the authority to make key decisions. He also advised Afridi to avoid private meetings and focus on governance responsibilities.
The exchange underscores widening differences within PTI’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa leadership, particularly as the party navigates ongoing political pressure and internal scrutiny.
