Growing Divide within PTI: Ali Amin Gandapur Faces Criticism for His Political Moves

Islamabad:Following the departure of former Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Pervez Khattak from PTI, Ali Amin Gandapur, a prominent leader who had rallied the party members during tough times, is now facing growing distances between himself and the workers. This rift has emerged due to Gandapur’s recent meetings with political opponents and establishment figures, which has raised concerns among the party’s ideological and anti-establishment factions.

There are reports of intense disagreements and factionalism within PTI, with some leaders accusing Gandapur of playing a dual role. The opposition group claims that Shakil Khan, a loyal leader from Malakand, was removed from the cabinet for speaking out against Gandapur’s policies and opposing the government’s ties with the opposition. However, the government’s stance is that Khan was dismissed due to corruption charges.

**Allegations of Double Standards:**
Criticism of Gandapur’s policies is now common in private gatherings of party leaders. Some members even attempted to meet with Imran Khan in jail to brief him on the situation. A PTI Youth Wing leader, speaking on the condition of anonymity, told *V News* that there are serious concerns within the party regarding Gandapur’s approach. “When we came into power, Ali Amin promised accountability and action against wrongdoers. But now, he is welcoming them,” the leader stated.

The Youth Wing leader added that the party members believe that influential circles were behind Imran Khan’s imprisonment, yet Gandapur continues to meet with these very people. “Party workers want Ali Amin to confront the federal government and opposition, not maintain relations with them,” he explained, noting that despite being ready to take a stand, Gandapur is playing a double role.

**Dissatisfaction among Workers:**
A senior PTI leader and assembly member echoed these concerns, saying that workers are unhappy with the provincial government’s policies. He pointed out that while the Chief Minister holds meetings with political opponents, he shifts the blame to the federal government when it comes to fund allocation. “We simply ask why he meets with them when they don’t provide funds or release Imran Khan. This feels like rubbing salt into our wounds,” he said.

**Historical Struggles and Current Discontent:**
One PTI leader, reflecting on past sacrifices, said that before the government was formed, they faced arrests and went into hiding. “But now, the hopes of freedom and change have been dashed,” he stated. He also criticized Gandapur for his failure to take action against corrupt officials, despite initially promising to do so upon becoming Chief Minister. “It is disappointing that he couldn’t even replace the IG Police or the Chief Secretary,” he added.

**Responsibility for November 26th Incident:**
According to party leaders, the events of November 26th in Islamabad were orchestrated by Mohsin Naqvi, who, they claim, acted on the orders of the Shehbaz government and establishment forces, firing on PTI workers. Despite this, Gandapur continues to welcome Naqvi as a “royal guest” when he visits Peshawar. “Those who helped bring down Imran Khan’s government are now Gandapur’s allies,” one leader commented. Workers are now eagerly awaiting Imran Khan’s release, hoping that accountability will be restored once he is free.

**Satisfaction with Provincial Government’s Performance:**
Government spokespeople maintain that the policies and actions of Ali Amin Gandapur are in line with Imran Khan’s vision. Barrister Saif emphasized that Gandapur continues to follow Khan’s guidance on provincial and party matters and has the full support of PTI’s founder. During a press conference in Peshawar, PTI’s central spokespersons Sheikh Waqas Akram and Mazamil Aslam affirmed that Gandapur is adhering to Khan’s directions. “Imran Khan knows when to give an opportunity to each player,” Aslam added.

**Ali Amin Gandapur’s Response to Criticism:**
While Gandapur has faced criticism on social media for his high-level meetings, he has largely refrained from discussing these interactions openly. However, in a recent interview, he did address his meetings with Mohsin Naqvi, stating that he had repeatedly questioned him about the November 26 incident. Gandapur also mentioned the tensions he faced in meetings with Shehbaz Sharif but did not elaborate on his closeness to powerful circles, which has led to dissatisfaction among the party’s base.

The ongoing internal strife within PTI, particularly regarding Ali Amin Gandapur’s political decisions, reflects broader divisions within the party, highlighting the challenges faced by PTI in maintaining unity and aligning its leadership with the expectations of its workers.