LAHORE: Speculations are mounting regarding a potential forward bloc within the Pakistan Tehrik-e-Insaf (PTI) as disgruntled PTI leader Jehangir Tareen has been engaging in meetings with various political figures. Tareen’s recent interactions with around 20 prominent politicians in the span of a week have raised suspicions of a possible factional split within the PTI.
Previously, Tareen had held PTI Chairman Imran Khan and party leaders accountable for the attack on Jinnah House. Expressing his disappointment, he visited the historic site and expressed deep sorrow over its mistreatment. The Corps Commander House, once the residence of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, witnessed such an incident after 75 years, which Tareen deplored.
Senior Leaders Quitting PTI
The PTI has faced recent setbacks as key leaders, including Fawad Chaudhry, Shireen Mazari, Aamir Mehmood Kiyani, and Fayyazul Hassan Chohan, have parted ways with the party, citing concerns over the party’s policy of resorting to violence. Other notable departures include Malik Amin Aslam, Mahmood Moulvi, Mian Jaleel Ahmed Sharaqpuri, and Aftab Siddiqui.
Senior leader Asad Umar also resigned from party positions citing his inability to lead the party in current circumstances.
Chohan, during a press conference, hinted at the emergence of a forward bloc within the PTI and mentioned his intentions to meet with key party leaders, such as Shah Mehmood Qureshi, Asad Umar, and Parvez Elahi.
Similarly, Mazari condemned the violence that erupted on May 9 following the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. She emphasized that her family remained her priority. In the aftermath of the violence, PTI leaders were accused of involvement in attacks on military installations, including Lahore’s Corps Commander House and the General Headquarters (GHQ). As a result, the military declared its intention to try PTI leaders under the army act, thereby tightening the grip on the party.
The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) strongly criticized the decision to try individuals involved in the May 9 incidents under the Pakistan Army Act 1952 and Official Secrets Act 1923.
The HRCP voiced its opposition, stating that while those responsible for arson and property damage during the protests should be held accountable, they must also be granted due process. The rights body further urged the transfer of cases against civilians tried under these acts in the past to civil courts.
