Amidst growing factionalism within the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, prominent leaders Asad Umar and Asad Qaiser have vehemently denied any association with Jahangir Khan Tareen, who was once a close aide of PTI chief Imran Khan. Umar and Qaiser made these statements during their separate appearances at court hearings related to the violent protests that took place on May 9. As the Tareen group intensifies its efforts to recruit PTI defectors ahead of the general elections, it remains to be seen how this political landscape will evolve.
Tareen Group’s Pursuit of Defectors:
The Tareen group, comprising dissident parliamentarians within the PTI, has reportedly been actively seeking PTI defectors to bolster its ranks. Numerous PTI members, including prominent leaders, have recently severed ties with the party following a government crackdown, accusing them of involvement in the vandalism that occurred during the May 9 protests following Imran Khan’s arrest. Speculations arise about Tareen’s future political aspirations, with reports suggesting he may launch a new political party.
Meeting with Aleem Khan and Prospects of a New Party:
On May 29, Jahangir Tareen held a meeting at his residence in the provincial capital with former PTI leader Aleem Khan, as reported by Dawn. The gathering was also attended by Ishaq Khakwani, a former minister, Aown Chaudhry, a PM’s aide, Saeed Akbar Niwani, and Shoaib Siddiqui. While the Tareen group has not officially announced its re-entry into the political arena, indications point towards the potential launch of a new political party. Sardar Tanveer Ilyas, a PTI defector and former prime minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, declared his alignment with the Tareen-led group during a meeting in Lahore, expressing their mutual commitment to move forward together.
Formation of a New Party on the Horizon:
Nauman Langrial, another member of the Tareen group, revealed that serious considerations were underway regarding the formation of a new party. Although no final decision has been made, the group is in contact with former PTI leaders and anticipates their imminent support. Langrial emphasized the shifting sentiment among the public after the May 9 riots, suggesting that the people are no longer aligned with “Imran Khan’s PTI.” He further stated that anyone willing to abandon the PTI and its narrative would be welcomed into their ranks.
Umar and Qaiser Deny Connections with Tareen:
During his court appearance, Asad Umar faced a barrage of questions from reporters regarding his association with Jahangir Tareen. Umar firmly responded, dismissing any link between them. Similarly, when asked if Tareen had been in contact with him, Asad Qaiser shook his head in denial. These statements from the PTI leaders highlight their explicit disassociation from Tareen and his faction.
Conclusion: Asad Umar and Asad Qaiser’s denial of ties with Jahangir Khan Tareen underscores the escalating factionalism within the PTI. With the Tareen group actively pursuing PTI defectors and considering the formation of a new political party, the political landscape in Pakistan is poised for significant transformations. The upcoming general elections will be crucial in determining the influence and reach of the various factions vying for power. As the situation unfolds,