Plans for a Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) rally in Mardan have encountered resistance from within its own alliance, as key partners have expressed dissatisfaction and opted not to attend the public gathering.
The decision by the Tehreek Tahaffuz-e-Aain-e-Pakistan to boycott the rally follows criticism made by Aleema Khan against senior leaders, including Mehmood Khan Achakzai and Allama Raja Nasir Abbas.
The sources said Aleema Khan’s remarks against allied leadership created tensions within the alliance.
The sources said the criticism triggered strong reactions among party workers, raising concerns that tensions at the rally could escalate.
Sources indicated that there was a risk of inappropriate behaviour towards leaders of allied groups if they attended the Mardan public meeting.
Mahmood Khan Achakzai has also reportedly expressed serious reservations over the situation, highlighting growing unease among PTI’s partners.
In an effort to ensure the rally’s success in its home province, PTI has tasked Chief Minister Sohail Afridi with managing the event and addressing concerns of allied parties.
However, efforts to persuade coalition partners to participate have so far not been successful, the sources said.
Sources further said that the Tehreek Tahaffuz-e-Aain-e-Pakistan has made it clear it will not attend the rally unless Aleema Khan refrains from criticising party decisions and strategy.
The development follows earlier remarks made by Salman Akram Raja, who also criticised Aleema Khan two days ago, adding to the internal discord.
