Incarcerated Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan is set to make crucial decisions regarding the return of former members to the party fold, as reported by Geo News citing reliable sources. Amidst reports of deserters expressing interest in rejoining PTI, Khan has purportedly decided to defer any decisions until after his release from prison.
Sources revealed that PTI leadership, under Khan’s directive, has temporarily halted the return of individuals who had previously parted ways with the party. This development follows a series of defections from PTI, with several leaders holding press conferences to announce their dissociation, triggered by the aftermath of Khan’s arrest in a corruption case linked to violent incidents on May 9.
Despite earlier denials from PTI leadership regarding the reintegration of former members, recent statements by PTI leader Hammad Azhar hinted at a shift. Azhar acknowledged that a majority of those who had previously announced their departure were now expressing a desire to return. He emphasized that Khan himself would assess each case individually before making a final decision.
To streamline this process, a seven-member committee has been formed under the leadership of PTI Vice Chairman Shah Mahmood Qureshi. The committee, which includes Asad Qaiser, Hamid Khan, Shehryar Afridi, Barrister Gohar, and Shibli Faraz, has been tasked with evaluating the cases of former members seeking readmission. The committee will compile a list of recommendations, which will then be presented to Imran Khan for a final verdict.
In parallel efforts, Shandana Gulzar has been appointed to investigate and report on cases related to former PTI women leaders and to ascertain their reasons for leaving the party.
The decisions arising from these deliberations are eagerly awaited, especially as Pakistan gears up for crucial elections on February 8. Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.