The Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) finds itself in troubled waters as it grapples with unprecedented pressure and a severe backlash. The party, once on the offensive, is now on the defensive, facing a series of setbacks in quick succession. May 9 will forever be remembered as a dark chapter in the country’s history. The targeting of military installations was an unprecedented event, marking a significant escalation. The Lahore corps commander’s residence was vandalized, the gates of the General Headquarters in Rawalpindi were breached, memorials of martyrs were damaged, and PAF Air Base M M Alam in Mianwali came under attack. It was indeed a tragic and somber day.
While the PTI denies any involvement in the acts of arson, claiming a conspiracy behind the events, it struggles to disassociate itself from the ensuing riots that followed Imran Khan’s arrest. The situation has rapidly deteriorated, with several prominent members leaving the party one after another. Mahmood Baqi Maulvi, an MNA from Karachi, was the first to part ways, citing his inability to align with the party after the May 9 turmoil. Many others, including former MPAs and MNAs, followed suit. Aamer Mahmood Kiyani, a veteran party member and former health minister, bid farewell, leaving Imran Khan disheartened. The departure of Shireen Mazari, who had been arrested multiple times within a short period, was another significant blow. Overwhelmed by the circumstances and prioritizing her family, she decided to step away from PTI and politics.
Fayyazul Hasan Chohan, one of the most vocal PTI leaders, held a press conference to announce his departure. Analysts predict that the party may witness further departures in the coming days, possibly including some high-profile figures. Will this trend impact the party’s future? Can PTI weather this storm? While some political commentators believe it may not cause significant damage, citing the party’s multiple candidates in each constituency, there are strong rumors of a new party emerging, with many former PTI members joining its ranks. In such a scenario, the future of PTI remains uncertain. Defense Minister Khawaja Asif’s recent media talk alluded to the possibility of an imminent ban on the party. These developments raise questions about PTI’s prospects in the face of mounting challenges.
