PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has revealed that he briefed PTI founder Imran Khan about growing internal rifts, which he believes are being fuelled by certain vloggers with the backing of Aleema Khan.
Speaking to reporters, Gandapur alleged that instead of curbing the online campaigns, Imran Khan’s sister Aleema was encouraging those narratives. He said this unchecked support has given strength to voices pushing divisions within the party, which are now openly visible.
Aleema Khan portrayed as ‘party chairperson’
The chief minister further claimed that senior columnist Hafeezullah Niazi, a close relative of Imran Khan, was publishing articles presenting Aleema Khan as both the “chairperson of PTI” and even a future “prime minister.” According to Gandapur, a deliberate campaign is under way to elevate Aleema into a leadership role, a move he warned could cause lasting PTI splits and weaken the party at a critical time.
He added that propaganda is spreading hopelessness among PTI workers by suggesting that no meaningful struggle is being made for Imran Khan’s release. Gandapur stressed that such messaging is damaging morale and creating further confusion among the party base.
Groupings and vested interests in PTI
Highlighting the risks of factionalism, Gandapur said that small groups are being formed within PTI for vested interests. “I have conveyed the reality to the PTI founder exactly as it is,” he stated.
The KP CM explained that his meeting with Imran came after a considerable gap. Both discussed a range of issues requiring consultation. He noted that even in their previous meeting, the focus had been on reforms and adjustments within the provincial government.
Cabinet reshuffles and reforms discussed
During the latest session, Gandapur briefed Imran Khan in detail on planned reforms and possible cabinet reshuffles. He said such steps are part of routine governance and are being introduced with the PTI founder’s approval.
Following the discussion, Gandapur contacted PTI leaders Aqibullah and Faisal Tarakai to update them on the agreed decisions. He clarified that both leaders have remained part of his team, and further changes are being pursued with Imran’s guidance.
Imran issues new directions
The KP CM also confirmed that Imran Khan gave him fresh directions regarding both government matters and party organisation. Gandapur reassured supporters that the PTI founder remains actively involved in shaping decisions, despite the challenges the party is facing.
