PESHAWAR – The PTI protest strategy has come under intense scrutiny as two contradictory narratives emerge from within the party. The significance of this divide is heightened by the fact that one stance comes directly from the party Chairman, while the other—a clear signal of an upcoming demonstration—emanates from the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government.
At a time when the leadership should be reviewing the public response to the February 8 call and rectifying internal weaknesses, the party appears split. Without unified consultation, one wing hints at a massive movement while the other rejects the possibility of a protest entirely, leaving the future of the PTI protest strategy as a major question mark.
PTI’s protests to be no-confidence against ‘hybrid govt: Qaiser
Leadership Void and Consultation Gaps
The current atmosphere suggests a leadership vacuum. While a unified voice is needed, divisions within the ranks are becoming prominent. Furthermore, the supreme leader has reportedly handed the steering of the movement to senior leaders who are essentially conciliatory. These elders seem so averse to the topic that they signal silence when questioned, appearing unwilling to even discuss potential PTI protests.
Barrister Gohar vs. The KP Container
PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan has stated that party founder Imran Khan has issued instructions against any orders to “charge toward Islamabad.” Gohar dismissed reports regarding the preparation of containers, noting that the founder has empowered Mahmood Khan Achakzai and Allama Nasir Abbas to decide between negotiations or resistance.
Also Read: KP Govt Slams Federal Authorities Over Imran Khan’s Health “Secrecy”
Conversely, reports suggest the KP government is moving ahead with a different PTI protest strategy. A special 40-foot container has been prepared for Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, featuring a washroom, seating area, and the slogan “Liberty or Death.” Sources indicate this will serve as the central stage, and workers are already being directed to remain ready for a final call.
Challenges to the Protest Strategy
While protesting is the party’s prerogative, the current PTI protest strategy faces harsh realities. The adage “those who thunder seldom rain” is increasingly becoming the observation of recent calls. The party ranks are seeing a shift where energetic individuals are being replaced by pragmatic or exhausted senior leaders.
The intent to recreate the D-Chowk protests faces massive hurdles:
- The political winds are no longer favorable.
- The direct presence of the party founder is unavailable.
- Assembly members have been notably absent during previous protests.
- The free use of state resources may no longer be an option.
With workers facing bitter past experiences and a growing gulf caused by leadership’s perceived coldness, executing a high-stakes PTI protest strategy under the banner of “Liberty or Death” will require immense courage.
