LAHORE: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) workers have voiced their frustration over the party leadership’s inability to lead decisively during the recent Islamabad sit-in. Following the retreat from Islamabad, workers expressed feeling abandoned and disorganized, with many turning to social media to criticize the leadership’s lack of on-ground presence.
Leadership Under Fire
Disgruntled members pointed to the absence of prominent leaders such as Secretary-General Salman Akram Raja, Punjab President Hammad Azhar, and Information Secretary Shaukat Basra during critical moments. Workers claimed the leadership failed to implement contingency plans, leaving them stranded and directionless.
Salman Akram Raja faced particular backlash for not being present in Islamabad. Responding to criticism on his social media, Raja defended his absence, but workers dismissed his explanations as inadequate. Similarly, Hammad Azhar’s silence on social platforms drew ire, with supporters accusing him of failing to rally Punjab workers effectively.
Internal Rift and Disillusionment
The apparent disconnect between workers and leadership has sparked internal divisions, with Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa workers engaging in a blame game. Long-time party members lamented the emergence of rifts within the party, which they attributed to the prolonged imprisonment of key leaders, including Imran Khan.
Allegations of Mismanagement
Imran Khan’s sister, Aleema Khanum, criticized the party’s logistical failures, citing the lack of a functioning sound system and lighting on the main protest container. She stated that these shortcomings left workers in confusion during critical hours.
Leadership’s Response
In a video message, Salman Akram Raja accused government forces of targeting unarmed protesters, claiming that 20 workers lost their lives. He announced plans to file legal cases against the authorities, pledging to fight for constitutional and human rights.
Raja further criticized the government for restricting movement by sealing off Lahore’s exit points, effectively preventing workers from joining the Islamabad protest. He dismissed the idea of symbolic protests at checkpoints, emphasizing the challenges of navigating government-imposed restrictions.
Workers Demand Accountability
The fallout from the sit-in has led to widespread calls for accountability within PTI. Supporters have urged the leadership to reflect on their strategies and ensure better coordination in the future, as the party faces mounting challenges.
