ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Secretary General Barrister Salman Akram Raja has dismissed reports of internal rifts within the party leadership while defending the decision to postpone the April 9 public rally.
Speaking to the media near Adiala jail on Tuesday, he clarified that the postponement was a strategic move intended to avoid interference with international diplomatic activities, noting that PTI Chairman Imran Khan had conveyed the message to delay the event through his counsel, Salman Safdar. Addressing criticisms of “facilitation” regarding the decision, the secretary general admitted his frustration with such labels but maintained that the party remains unified in its decision-making process.
He expressed grave concern over the deteriorating state of the national economy and governance, asserting that the current administration is surviving on external aid rather than sustainable growth. He stated that global accolades and high-profile travel do not equate to national success while the public continues to face severe economic distress. He highlighted that the PTI’s economic policy group remains highly active, monitoring the situation daily and preparing comprehensive policy frameworks to address the country’s financial challenges.
The PTI leader pointed to a recent tragic incident in Taunsa, where the reuse of syringes reportedly led to hundreds of children contracting HIV, as a somber indictment of the country’s failing healthcare system. He criticised the government for widespread budget cuts in health and education sectors, noting that the decline in services is evident from the mills of Faisalabad to the hospitals of Lahore.
Regarding the low turnout of party members at Adiala jail in recent weeks, Raja explained that supporters have been deterred by the mistreatment and administrative hurdles they face when attempting to visit the former prime minister.
In response to questions regarding internal party dynamics and the leadership of PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, Raja insisted there are no plans to replace him, despite varying opinions within the party. He acknowledged the sincere role played by Imran Khan’s sisters, describing their involvement as a protective circle for their brother.
Furthermore, he disassociated the PTI from anonymous social media accounts that have been critical of the leadership, labeling them as “sponsored” entities. He concluded by reaffirming the PTI’s commitment to the Tehreek Tahaffuz-e-Aiyeen-e-Pakistan, stating that he and other leaders continue to work closely with Mahmood Khan Achakzai and Allama Raja Nasir Abbas to uphold the Constitution.
