POLITICS & POLICY MAKING

Peshawar — The central leadership of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has expressed dissatisfaction over the low turnout at a recent rally held in Swabi, sources revealed.
According to insiders, criticism has been directed at the provincial leadership in informal meetings due to the turnout. Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur reportedly discussed the matter with party leaders and made phone calls to assembly members, urging them to mobilize more workers.
Organizational Concerns Raised
Party figures Asad Qaiser and Shahram Tarakai were responsible for stage arrangements, while Junaid Akbar handled other logistical aspects of the rally. Despite their efforts, the attendance reportedly fell short of expectations.
Sources suggest that the arrest and imprisonment of PTI workers during protests contributed to the reduced participation.
Mixed Statements from Leadership
PTI Khyber Pakhtunkhwa President Junaid Akbar maintained that the rally met expectations, while Atif Khan described it as "wonderful" with enthusiastic workers. However, Shaukat Yousafzai acknowledged a need for better discipline.
Interestingly, it was reported that Junaid Akbar refused to accept rally funds from the Chief Minister. Following the event, Akbar has sought detailed reports from all party leaders on the number of workers mobilized.
The Swabi rally marks a significant moment for PTI amid ongoing political challenges, with leadership looking for ways to reinvigorate its base in the province.