Internal differences within the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) have intensified over the PTI September 27 long march call toward Islamabad.
PTI leaders based abroad have accused Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi of choosing September 27 instead of mid-August for the planned march because of an alleged secret deal.
The allegations have added to tensions within the opposition party as its leadership remains divided over the timing and strategy of the proposed protest. The claims have not been independently verified.
Sohail Afridi has rejected the allegations as baseless. Responding to the criticism, the KP chief minister said those making the accusations would eventually apologise to him.
Afridi specifically referred to PTI leader Shehbaz Gill, who has criticised the decision over the timing of the protest. The chief minister expressed confidence that Gill would apologise to him soon.
The PTI September 27 long march has also raised differences among party supporters and leaders over the timing of political mobilisation. The dispute reflects broader disagreements about how the party should proceed with its protest campaign.
Afridi said he would also try to convince Aleema Khan regarding the issue. An interview in which he is expected to discuss the controversy and respond to the allegations is scheduled to be broadcast at 8pm.
The dispute highlights growing internal pressure within PTI as the proposed Islamabad march approaches. Further statements from party leaders could determine whether the disagreements are resolved or continue to deepen ahead of September 27.
