Omar Ayub Khan, a senior leader of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), announced his resignation as the party’s Secretary General and Chairman of the Central Finance Board on Thursday. Ayub made this announcement via a post on X, expressing his gratitude to Imran Khan for accepting his resignation. “I sent my resignation to the PTI founder and Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali on 22nd June,” he stated.
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Ayub’s decision to step down stems from his current role as Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly. He explained, “As the opposition leader, I couldn’t do justice to the role of the party’s Secretary General. Another person should be appointed to the position.”
Internal Dynamics and Reactions
The resignation has prompted speculation about changes within the PTI’s organizational structure. Senator Shibli Faraz, Leader of the Opposition in the Senate, delivered Ayub’s message to Imran Khan during a meeting at Adiala Jail. Further shifts in party positions are anticipated following instructions from the PTI founder.
Ayub thanked the PTI family, parliamentarians, and office holders for their dedication, stating, “I wish to thank all members of the PTI family, parliamentarians, and office holders who have worked tirelessly and courageously for the PTI and its founder.”
Rifts Within the Party
Reports indicate significant internal rifts within PTI. Sources suggest that 27 PTI-backed Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) lawmakers are considering resigning from the National Assembly, protesting against the top leadership. Insiders revealed that 21 of these lawmakers are contemplating forming a forward bloc due to the leadership’s failure to secure the release of party founder Imran Khan from jail.
These disgruntled members have conveyed their frustration to PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan and Secretary-General Omar Ayub, urging more serious efforts for the release of imprisoned leaders. They criticized some leaders for focusing on higher posts rather than the party’s core issues.
Calls for Further Resignations
Reacting to Ayub’s resignation, party’s disgruntled leader Sher Afzal Marwat called for Senator Shibli Faraz to also resign from his positions. “I welcome Omar Ayub Khan’s wise decision to step down as secretary general,” Marwat said on X. He urged other key party figures to follow suit, citing the party’s failure to achieve significant objectives.
Marwat highlighted various failures under the current leadership, including losses related to the party symbol, reserved seats, by-elections, and party reorganization. He criticized the core committee and political committees for being comprised of favorites, with decisions not made on merit.
“I demand Shibli Faraz resign from both his party office and his position as Leader of the Opposition in the Senate,” Marwat asserted. “Only then will the party be free from the clutches of the mafia.” He called on party workers to support his demand, promising that the party would rise to meet the needs of the time if Shibli is removed.
Positive Prospects for PTI
PTI continues to push forward with a strong commitment to its principles and objectives. The anticipated organizational changes and calls for more accountability within the party reflect a dedication to improving its structure and leadership.
Omar Ayub’s decision to step down from his dual roles within PTI underscores his commitment to focusing on his duties as Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly. His move has sparked discussions that may lead to a more streamlined and effective leadership within the party, aiming to address the pressing issues faced by its members and the nation.
With ongoing internal reorganization and potential leadership changes, PTI aims to strengthen its resolve and focus on its foundational goals. The party’s commitment to legal and democratic processes remains strong, and the anticipated structural changes are expected to better position PTI to address current challenges and future opportunities.