In a major development, former Sindh governor Imran Ismail announced his resignation from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and all party positions. Addressing a press conference at the Karachi Press Club, Ismail stated that he is stepping down from his roles as the additional secretary general and member of the PTI core committee.
Describing the press conference as potentially his last in the political arena, Imran Ismail reflected on his journey with PTI chairman Imran Khan. He highlighted being among the four founding members of the party, acknowledging the ups and downs they experienced during their struggle and their shared vision for a prosperous Pakistan.
While condemning the protests that erupted on May 9 following the release of PTI Chairman Imran Khan, Ismail expressed his support for the Pakistan Army and criticized the former ruling party’s anti-establishment rhetoric. He emphasized the need to determine those responsible for the attacks on military installations and monuments of martyrs during the May 9 events, calling for exemplary punishment for the perpetrators.
Ismail clarified that he did not participate in the May 9 riots and rallies and made the decision to leave the PTI after careful consideration. However, he remained uncertain about his future in politics, stating, “I am not sure whether I will continue politics or not.”
This announcement adds to the growing number of PTI lawmakers and members who have parted ways with the party in the aftermath of the violent events on May 9. The attacks on military installations, including the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi and the Corps Commander House in Lahore, occurred following the arrest of PTI Chairman Imran Khan.
Notably, the PTI recently witnessed two significant departures as former human rights minister Shireen Mazari and former federal minister Fawad Chaudhry resigned from the party due to the May 9 violence.
The May 9 events triggered widespread clashes across Pakistan after Imran Khan’s arrest at the Islamabad High Court. Protests erupted in various cities, with party workers expressing their discontent over their leader’s detention. Authorities in Balochistan, Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Islamabad called upon the armed forces to maintain law and order.
During the protests, PTI workers targeted army installations and the Corps Commander’s house in Lahore. In the midst of the chaos, Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Operations Ali Nasir Rizvi sustained severe injuries while attempting to restore order.
As the PTI faces a wave of departures and internal challenges, the future of the party remains uncertain. The political landscape in Pakistan continues to evolve, with observers eagerly anticipating further developments and their potential impact on the country’s political dynamics.