PTI Lawmakers Express Frustration Over Leadership, Social Media; Internal Meeting Drama Emerges

Islamabad (Qudrat Daily) – Tensions surfaced during a Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) parliamentary party meeting as Punjab Assembly opposition leader Mian Qureshi and other leaders expressed frustration over the party leadership and the handling of social media, while also raising concerns regarding opposition leader Mahmood Khan Achakzai.

The meeting was held at the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa House in Islamabad, where PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Khan welcomed the members and explained the context of the February 8 announcements, emphasizing the party’s continued coordination. Barrister Gohar briefed members about the health condition of the party founder, noting that although his health had slightly improved, he was not yet fully well, and medical teams at PIMS had warned of potential damage to his eye.

Salman Akram Raja highlighted the need for careful handling of the founder’s health issue, urging members to follow the planned strategy for strikes and rallies on February 8, emphasizing unity and coordinated action for change.

During the meeting, Punjab Assembly Opposition Leader Mian Qureshi expressed anger at party members, criticizing the misuse of social media to spread allegations and abusive messages against members who could not attend due to illness. He said, “If there are questions, ask me directly, but do not adopt this approach. Leadership must address the fact that our social media itself is undermining us.”

Sources reported that Sheikh Waqas Akram interrupted Qureshi, asking whether members could speak or just listen. Meanwhile, leaders Faisal Javed and Shahid Khattak also expressed frustration, claiming their efforts were being misrepresented. Faisal Javed urged party members not to question the intentions of their colleagues, while Shahid Khattak emphasized the importance of presenting a united front and called for clear guidance on protests, criticizing ambiguity from Mahmood Khan Achakzai and Allama Nasir Abbas regarding the planned actions.

Shahid Khattak further stressed that the party should ensure the founder receives proper medical care and that all members should move forward collectively across all forums, including demonstrations if necessary. The meeting highlighted growing internal tensions and the urgent need for coordinated leadership within PTI.