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 in a WhatsApp group, leading to both leaving the group in quick succession.
According to sources familiar with the matter, the dispute arose from Sheikh Waqas Akram’s comments during a television program when he was asked about reports that Imran Khan’s sisters had missed the opportunity to meet the jailed PTI founder, while only one of his sisters had been allowed access.
Adopting a cautious stance, Sheikh Waqas responded that he had not personally spoken to Aleema Khan and was therefore not aware of the details.
He said that Aleema herself had made her position public and that, beyond that, he was unaware 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 to meet Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi existed, albeit on terms set by the authorities.
According to sources, Aleema Khan opposed Sheikh Waqas Akram’s response and used the main WhatsApp group, created to coordinate efforts and strategies for the release of Imran Khan, to vent her frustration.
Inquiring about Sheikh Waqas Akram, Aleema wrote: “I am sure you will find it funny, but if you can understand the family’s grief over our brother’s health.”
He alleged that if the party leaders could not secure the release of Imran Khan, they should not expect the family to abandon their efforts to secure his freedom.
He further accused many within the PTI of siding with Imran Khan’s enemies against his family. Aleema wrote that they would restore her legitimate right to meet him and also secure her freedom.
Sheikh Waqas Akram then responded to the messages addressed to him.
Acknowledging the unmatched sacrifices made by Imran Khan, he reminded Aleema that many PTI workers and leaders were enduring the same pain in light of those who had died and those who remained behind bars due to Imran Khan’s struggle.
Sheikh Waqas further wrote that the position he had expressed during the television show, as well as in other talk shows, reflected the party’s position and also his point of view. He wrote that he had been explaining the party’s stand long 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 PAkGazette, without denying the development, Sheikh Waqas Akram said that Aleema Khan was his elder and disagreements could happen anywhere. He said there was no hesitation on his part.
Responding to a question about Noreen Niazi’s alleged meeting, he said he was not aware of it.
