Bushra Bibi, wife of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chairman Imran Khan, has recently been released from Adiala Jail, sparking debate and speculation over whether a deal was involved in her release.
After Ali Amin Gandapur, Chief Minister (CM) of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa(KP), claimed that he played a role in her release, doubts and concerns grew further regarding any potential deal behind it. His spokesperson, Barrister Saif, confirmed Gandapur’s involvement, but when he was directly asked about this, he gave no clear answer, which only increased the suspense.
This deal speculation contradicts PTI’s stance of not compromising anything during times of crisis, it raises further concerns.
Bushra Bibi’s stay in Peshawar after her release has also fueled the already controversial narrative surrounding PTI.
Having no official authority, her involvement in party affairs has raised questions, including under what authority she resides in official accommodations and interferes in party matters. This has also reignited the debate about the party’s claims against dynastic politics, with many now questioning whether those claims were simply empty promises. Her presence in Peshawar is viewed by some as a strategy to further escalate tensions within the party.
In the midst of these internal conflicts and struggles, the party has been lobbying in the U.S., U.K., and other countries to secure the release of Imran Khan, which contradicts their anti-foreign intervention stance and damages Pakistan’s foreign relations.
Political analysts suggest that the division within PTI is now undeniable, as senior leadership grows frustrated. Internal strife is evident as senior members clash over party control, and Bushra Bibi’s release has only exacerbated the existing tensions.
Her visit to Peshawar, followed by a meeting with the PTI founder and then her trip to Lahore’s Zaman Park, has further exposed these rifts.
Similarly, Aleema Khan, sister of the PTI founder, has caused political interference that has disturbed senior leadership, prompting them to express their concerns directly to Imran Khan.
This factionalism within PTI has brought the party to the brink of collapse, with the leadership facing immense challenges as they grapple with internal power struggles and a dwindling public image.
