LAHORE:
Internal divisions within the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) came to light after a tense exchange between Imran Khan’s sister Aleema Khan and the party’s information secretary Sheikh Waqas Akram on a WhatsApp group, prompting both to quit the group in quick succession.
According to sources close to the matter, the dispute stems from Sheikh Waqas Akram’s remarks during a television show when he was asked about reports that Imran Khan’s sisters had missed an opportunity to meet the imprisoned PTI founder when only one of his sisters had been allowed access.
Taking a cautious stance, Sheikh Waqas responded that he had not spoken to Aleema Khan personally and was therefore not privy to the details.
He said Aleema herself had made her position public and apart from that he was not aware of the matter.
However, he added that Bushra Bibi’s daughter and sister-in-law (bhabi) had been allowed to meet her, implying that the offer of meetings with Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi existed, albeit on conditions set by the authorities.
According to sources, Aleema Khan objected to Sheikh Waqas Akram’s response and took to the main WhatsApp group, created to coordinate efforts and strategies towards the release of Imran Khan, to express her frustration.
Taking a dig at Sheikh Waqas Akram, Aleema wrote: “I’m sure you find this amusing but if you can understand the family’s pain regarding our brother’s health.”
She asserted that if party leaders failed to secure Imran Khan’s release, they should not expect the family to abandon their efforts to secure his freedom.
She further accused many PTI members of siding with Imran Khan’s enemies against his family. Aleema wrote that they would restore their legitimate right to meet him and also guarantee his freedom.
Sheikh Waqas Akram then responded to the messages addressed to him.
Acknowledging the unparalleled sacrifices made by Imran Khan, he reminded Aleema that many PTI workers and leaders were enduring the same pain in light of those who died and those who remained behind bars because of Imran Khan’s struggle.
Sheikh Waqas further wrote that the position he expressed during the TV show, as well as in other talk shows, reflected the party’s position as well as his point of view. He wrote that he had explained the party’s position much before Babar Awan.
According to sources, Aleema Khan later left the WhatsApp group. Sheikh Waqas Akram also left the group later.
Speaking to The Express PK Press Club without denying the developments, Sheikh Waqas Akram said Aleema Khan was his senior and disagreements could arise anywhere. He said there was no apprehension on his part.
Responding to a question about the meeting reported by Noreen Niazi, he said he was not aware of it.
