ISLAMABAD: Internal discord is reportedly growing within the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) as top party figures express concern over Aleema Khan’s increasing involvement in strategic decisions, particularly in the nomination process for a recently vacated Senate seat.
According to sources familiar with the matter, Aleema Khan—the sister of PTI founder Imran Khan—is believed to be exerting influence over the selection of a replacement for Sania Nishtar’s Senate position. Imran Khan had reportedly instructed Mashal Yousafzai, a senior party figure, to file nomination papers for the seat. However, Aleema is said to have objected to Yousafzai’s nomination and instead advocated for two alternative candidates: Sajida Zulfiqar, a relative of former PTI leader Pervez Khattak, and another candidate linked to Fida Muhammad, who previously defected from the party.
Insiders added that Mashal Yousafzai has the backing of Imran Khan’s wife, Bushra Bibi.
Meanwhile, lobbying efforts have intensified within the party ranks, with names like Samira Shams and Momina Basit also being floated as possible contenders.
This development came on the heels of a recent reconciliation between Aleema Khan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur. Sources say a high-level meeting held in Islamabad was attended by Imran Khan’s three sisters, Gandapur, and key PTI legal advisors. The gathering aimed to mend internal divisions and strategize the party’s approach toward securing Imran Khan’s release from Adiala Jail.
During the meeting, Aleema Khan reportedly emphasized that while she and her sisters do not engage in active politics, they remain committed to championing their brother’s legal battle. Party leaders resolved to put aside differences and intensify efforts for Khan’s release, including a directive for PTI lawmakers to be present at court proceedings tied to his ongoing cases.
