In a candid statement, Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Shaukat Yousafzai has voiced his disappointment over the party’s leadership during the recent “final call” protest. Speaking to Geo News, he highlighted the lack of planning, consultation, and coordination among senior PTI members, raising critical questions about the protest’s strategy and execution.
Leadership Criticized for Disorganization
Yousafzai expressed frustration over the absence of several key figures during the protest, emphasizing the leadership’s failure to step up at a crucial moment. According to him, only Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Ali Amin Gandapur stood by the workers, while others, including Barrister Gohar, Salman Akram Raja, and Sher Afzal Marwat, were noticeably absent.
“Where were the leaders when the workers needed them? If the leadership lacked decision-making power, why did they bring so many workers to D-Chowk?” Yousafzai questioned, underscoring the apparent disarray within PTI’s ranks.
Bushra Bibi and Ali Amin Gandapur’s Whereabouts
Yousafzai confirmed that Bushra Bibi and Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur were in Mansehra during the protest and remained safe. However, he raised concerns about the leadership’s lack of transparency and questioned their overnight stay arrangements during the critical hours of the protest.
Faulty Protest Planning and Lack of Negotiation
One of Yousafzai’s major criticisms was the decision to march towards D-Chowk, an area historically known for heavy government resistance. He argued that the leadership should have anticipated the federal government’s strict measures and planned accordingly.
“It was evident that the government would act with force in D-Chowk. Why wasn’t this taken into account? And if the federal government offered to negotiate, why didn’t the leadership engage in discussions?” Yousafzai lamented.
This lack of consultation, he suggested, was a key reason behind the protest’s failure. The party, he said, should internally investigate why D-Chowk was chosen as the focal point despite knowing the potential risks.
Police Crackdown and Losses
The protest took a grim turn as Islamabad Police launched a massive operation against PTI workers, resulting in chaos and loss. Reports indicate that the operation targeted senior PTI leaders and workers, forcing Bushra Bibi, Ali Amin Gandapur, and other party figures to leave the federal capital.
The crackdown highlighted the harsh measures employed by the government to suppress the protest, leading to increased tensions between PTI and the ruling coalition.
Disillusionment Among PTI Workers
Yousafzai’s statements shed light on the growing disillusionment among PTI’s grassroots supporters, who felt abandoned by the leadership during the protest. The absence of prominent leaders during critical moments added to the sense of betrayal, leaving workers demoralized and questioning the party’s strategy.
Call for Internal Accountability
The PTI leader strongly advocated for internal accountability within the party. He emphasized the need to identify the gaps in planning and decision-making that led to the protest’s failure.
“The party must investigate why the leadership failed to unite during such a critical moment. If we do not address these issues, we risk losing the trust of our workers and supporters,” Yousafzai cautioned.
Future Implications for PTI
This incident has exposed significant cracks within PTI’s leadership and strategy. As the party navigates this challenging period, it must address internal divisions and strengthen its organizational structure to regain the confidence of its supporters.
The federal government’s strict response to the protest also raises questions about the state’s approach to managing political dissent. While the government justified its actions as necessary to maintain law and order, critics argue that such measures stifle democratic freedoms and escalate tensions.
The PTI’s recent protest has left a trail of disappointment and questions. Shaukat Yousafzai’s candid remarks have brought the party’s internal challenges to light, emphasizing the need for better planning, coordination, and leadership accountability.
As PTI reflects on this episode, it faces a pivotal moment to regroup and address the underlying issues that led to the protest’s shortcomings. Moving forward, the party must prioritize effective leadership and transparent decision-making to maintain its relevance in Pakistan’s political landscape.
