KARACHI: Former Sindh governor Imran Ismail has announced his resignation from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party and all associated positions. He also announced leaving politics and said that this would be his last press conference as a politician.
Speaking at a press conference, Ismail stated, “I have decided that I am resigning from positions of the PTI, as I am the additional secretary general and a member of the core committee. I am also leaving the PTI… Khan sahib, I bid adieu to you and PTI.”
Unlike other party leaders who emphasized their family’s connection to the military while parting ways with the PTI, Ismail asserted that he was not “interlinked” with the army, and his family has no soldiers.
However, he clarified that his heart belongs to Pakistan, saying, “How can I say that I have no relation to the army if my family has had no soldier? I have a link and a relation. I wanted to go into the Pakistan Air Force.”
Imran Ismail Calls for Punishment of May 9 Rioters
Regarding the recent May 9 attacks on military installations and monuments, Ismail expressed the need for a thorough inquiry and the punishment of those responsible, regardless of their affiliation with the PTI.
He emphasized the nation’s unity and stated, “Whoever did the attack, we as a nation are united with one voice that there is an inquiry and they be meted out exemplary punishment whether they’re from the PTI or not. Our hearts beat with our martyrs.”
Reflecting on the PTI’s mass contact movement following its removal from government, Ismail noted that a diversion occurred at a certain point. He mentioned the development of a narrative that the PTI was opposed to the army, causing discomfort among many party members. He called on those who provided such advice to Imran Khan, without specifying names, to reflect on their actions.
Ismail also reminisced about his deep and remarkable journey with PTI Chairman Imran Khan, stating, “I was among the four people who laid the foundation of the PTI, among its founding members, and then a long struggle was before you… there were many ups and downs in the struggle, and we dreamed of a developing and prosperous Pakistan.”
