PTI rift: Imran Khan admits there are groups in party, set to meet 'both factions'

Imran Khan, the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has acknowledged internal divisions and factions within the party while speaking to reporters at Adiala jail. Despite refuting claims of a forward bloc, Khan admitted to rifts as the party faces significant internal turmoil. This comes after PTI Secretary-General Omar Ayub resigned to focus on his role as National Assembly Opposition Leader, amid reports of dissatisfaction among PTI-backed Sunni Ittehad Council lawmakers, with some considering forming a forward bloc due to the leadership's inability to secure Khan's release.

Khan supported Ayub, recognizing his sacrifices for the party but remained silent on former federal minister Fawad Chaudhry's criticism of the current leadership. Chaudhry had recently blamed the PTI's leadership for hindering the release of jailed members and expressed a desire to rejoin PTI despite previous conflicts. PTI Information Secretary Raoof Hasan emphasized that those who left the party had no right to comment on its affairs, stressing that the party is not falling apart despite public opinions against the leadership.

Khan addressed the return of leaders who deserted the party after the May 9 riots, indicating separate judgments for those who left under duress and those who left for personal reasons. The PTI core committee has passed resolutions regarding Ayub's resignation, the return of deserters, and disciplinary actions against policy violators.

Khan also commented on the recent US House of Representatives resolution calling for an investigation into alleged irregularities in Pakistan's February 2024 elections, comparing it to previous alleged interference in his government. The National Assembly of Pakistan condemned the US resolution, emphasizing Pakistan's sovereignty and rejecting any foreign intervention in its internal affairs.