Aleema Khan and Waqas Akram Depart WhatsApp Group
Internal divisions within the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) became apparent following a tense exchange between Imran Khan's sister, Aleema Khan, and the party's Information Secretary, Sheikh Waqas Akram, on a WhatsApp group. This led both individuals to exit the group in quick succession.
The dispute arose from remarks made by Sheikh Waqas Akram during a television program. When asked about reports suggesting that Imran Khan's sisters had missed an opportunity to meet the imprisoned PTI founder, with only one sister granted access, Sheikh Waqas responded cautiously. He stated that he had not personally spoken to Aleema Khan and therefore lacked details on the matter.
He noted that Aleema had publicly shared her stance, beyond which he was not informed. Sheikh Waqas mentioned that Bushra Bibi's daughter and sister-in-law had been permitted to meet Imran Khan, indicating that opportunities for meetings with Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi were available, subject to conditions set by authorities.
Aleema Khan took issue with Sheikh Waqas Akram's response and used the primary WhatsApp group, established to coordinate efforts and strategies for Imran Khan's release, to express her frustration. She criticized Sheikh Waqas, emphasizing the family's distress over their brother's health and asserting that if party leaders could not secure Imran Khan's release, the family would continue striving for his freedom.
Accusing some within PTI of aligning with Imran Khan's adversaries against his family, Aleema vowed to reclaim their right to meet him and secure his freedom.
In response, Sheikh Waqas Akram acknowledged Imran Khan's unparalleled sacrifices and reminded Aleema of the pain endured by many PTI members due to the struggles faced by Imran Khan. He clarified that his stance on the television program and other talk shows reflected both the party's position and his personal viewpoint.
Following the exchange, Aleema Khan exited the WhatsApp group, with Sheikh Waqas Akram also departing later. Speaking to The Express Tribune, Sheikh Waqas Akram acknowledged the disagreement with Aleema Khan, emphasizing that disagreements could arise even with elders and asserting there were no ill feelings on his part.
When asked about Noreen Niazi's reported meeting, Sheikh Waqas Akram stated that he was not aware of it.
