pti leadership backs
| | |

PTI leadership backs Sept 27 long March as KP CM r…

PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi has said that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leadership and the Tehreek-e-Tahaffuz-e-Ayeen-e-Pakistan (TTAP) alliance are fully supporting the planned long march towards Islamabad on September 27.

Afridi said the date for the protest was finalised after consultations among PTI’s central and provincial leadership as well as its allied group. He stressed that the decision had been taken collectively and that the party’s leadership across the provinces was on board with the plan.

Afridi’s comments came after reports that Aleema Khan, the sister of PTI founder Imran Khan, had questioned why the long march was scheduled for September 27 instead of an earlier date. Responding to the concerns, Afridi described Aleema as a non-political person who was speaking in her capacity as Imran Khan’s sister. He said he was confident that he could satisfy her concerns by explaining the reasons and circumstances behind the decision.

The KP chief minister also rejected allegations made by some PTI leaders based abroad that he had agreed to the September 27 date as part of a secret deal with the government. Afridi said those making such accusations should have contacted him directly before discussing the matter publicly.

He said such allegations could mislead PTI supporters and create unnecessary confusion. According to Afridi, individuals who were genuinely sincere with Imran Khan and the party should first seek clarification before making accusations against fellow party leaders.

Responding to a specific allegation that he had met Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and another government official on August 4 before announcing the date of the long march, Afridi categorically denied the claim. He described the allegation as completely baseless and said he had been present at the KP House in Islamabad from noon until around 4:30pm that day.

Afridi explained that he had been attending meetings related to the province’s Pado KP and telemedicine initiatives during that period. He also rejected the suggestion that the alleged meeting had taken place in Peshawar, reiterating that he was in Islamabad at the time.

The controversy comes as PTI prepares for what its leaders describe as a major mobilisation aimed at securing the release of Imran Khan. A day earlier, PTI leader Shafi Jan said the party had no option left except to launch the long march, which he described as its “last option”.

Jan said PTI workers were protesting because they believed their concerns were not being heard. He claimed that the party would march from Peshawar towards Islamabad with around two million people and said the demonstration would have an impact across the country.

Imran Khan, 73, has remained in prison since August 2023 following convictions in several cases. PTI has repeatedly rejected the allegations against its founder and described the legal proceedings as politically motivated.

Since his removal from office through a no-confidence vote in April 2022, Imran Khan has faced numerous legal cases, including those involving state gifts and his marriage. Although some of his convictions have been suspended or overturned, several appeals are still pending before higher courts. Imran Khan and PTI continue to deny any wrongdoing and maintain that the cases against him are politically driven.

Similar Posts

  • 52 new life-saving drugs await cabinet approval, Senate told

    ISLAMABAD: After finalising the prices of 52 new life-saving drugs, a high-powered government committee has sent the cases to the federal cabinet for approval, Federal Health Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal told the Senate on Tuesday while briefing lawmakers about delays in fixing prices of new medicines introduced in the Pakistani market. Kamal was responding to a calling-attention notice moved by Senator Zeeshan Khanzada regarding delays in the approval of prices of new medicines. He said prices are finalised after inspection by the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP), followed by a review by a six-member committee headed by the federal finance minister before the cases are moved to the cabinet. “Fifty-two cases have been finalised by our committee and sent to the cabinet,” Kamal told the Senate. He added that prices of 35 medicines had been fixed during the previous month. He said new medicines introduced by pharmaceutical companies are first submitted for price fixation and then examined by DRAP before being forwarded for government approval. He said that a six-member committee constituted by the federal cabinet checks the price of each molecule and formula of a medicine before making its recommendation. Kamal admitted that the process could take time because of past controversies surrounding medicine prices. He said it was important to complete the mechanism for checking and determining medicine prices. Referring to the drug-pricing controversy during the PTI government, the health minister said former health minister Amir Mehmood Kiani had to leave office over the issue. “Many checks have been put in place, and because of these checks, the decision-making process has been delayed,” Kamal said. Senator Khanzada, while moving the calling-attention notice, also raised questions about the performance of Pakistan’s pharmaceutical industry, saying its exports had increased rapidly despite what he described as limited government support. Kamal rejected the claim, saying pharmaceutical exports had increased in recent years and the government had facilitated manufacturers in expanding access to foreign markets. He said an agreement worth around $300 million for pharmaceutical products to 52 countries had been reached during a recent conference with China. Kamal said Pakistan’s pharmaceutical regulatory system would undergo a World Health Organization assessment on October 1. He said successful completion of the assessment could help strengthen the country’s pharmaceutical exports. He also highlighted changes in the registration process for medical devices, saying certificates could now be issued within 20 days after completion of the required process. Senator Khanzada also questioned the discontinuation of the Sehat Insaf Card and raised the issue of treatment for PTI founder Imran Khan. However, Kamal focused his response on the drug pricing mechanism and pharmaceutical exports, saying the government was working to examine and fix the prices of medicines through the prescribed regulatory process.

  • | |

    Sindh to launch EV taxi service in September

    Sindh’s Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon chaired a meeting of the Transport and Mass Transit Department, where officials approved the launch of an electric vehicle (EV) taxi service in September and the induction of 50 double-decker buses in October as part of efforts to modernize public transport across the province. According to a spokesperson for the Transport Department, the meeting also decided to introduce 1,000 electric buses in phases by the end of the current year. The initiative aims to expand environmentally friendly public transport and improve commuting facilities for residents. The meeting further approved new routes for the Peoples Bus Service, connecting Larkana to Qambar and Qambar to Shahdadkot, to improve transport links in northern Sindh. Officials briefed the provincial minister on the progress of various transport and mass transit projects during the meeting. Sharjeel Memon directed authorities to complete the construction of all depots for the Red Line Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project within the scheduled timeline. He also instructed officials to ensure the early operational launch of the new Peoples Bus Service routes between Larkana, Qambar and Shahdadkot. The minister confirmed that the Sindh government’s EV taxi service will begin operations in September. He added that the planned fleet of 1,000 electric buses will be introduced gradually to strengthen the province’s public transport network. He also announced that 50 new double-decker buses are expected to arrive in Karachi in October, providing commuters with improved and modern travel facilities.

  • |

    FIFA adviser Carlos Cordeiro quits over World Cup rights sale proposal

    ZURICH: A major controversy has emerged within FIFA after senior adviser Carlos Cordeiro resigned in protest over a proposal to sell a stake in the commercial rights of the FIFA World Cup, warning that the move could damage the long-term future of global football. According to international media reports, Cordeiro stepped down from his role as senior adviser to FIFA President Gianni Infantino after voicing strong opposition to the plan. He described the proposal as being against the interests of football and FIFA’s 211 member associations. The controversial proposal involves the creation of a new subsidiary, FIFA Forward Enterprise, reportedly valued at around $20 billion. Under the plan, the company would manage the commercial rights of the FIFA World Cup and other major tournaments, with up to 20% of its shares potentially being sold to outside investors. Cordeiro stressed that he had no role in developing the proposal and made it clear that he strongly opposed it. He argued that FIFA is already in a strong financial position, holding billions of dollars in reserves and carrying no debt. He questioned the logic of selling a permanent stake in one of football’s most valuable assets for an estimated $4.2 billion, saying such a decision could have lasting consequences for the sport. The proposal is expected to be reviewed by FIFA’s 211 member associations, which have until September 19 to decide whether to support the plan. Cordeiro also warned that introducing external investors into the commercial structure of the World Cup could weaken FIFA’s long-term control over its flagship tournament and create challenges for future generations of the game. The resignation has intensified debate over the future management of football’s biggest global event, with critics urging FIFA to protect the World Cup’s commercial independence while supporters argue that new investment could unlock fresh opportunities for the sport. The outcome of the upcoming vote is expected to shape the future financial direction of world football.

  • | |

    Kris Jenner and daughters mourn beloved Mary Jo ?…

    Kris Jenner and the Kardashian-Jenner family are reportedly grieving the loss of their beloved matriarch, Mary Jo “MJ” Campbell, who died on July 16 at the age of 91. According to People magazine, the family has been left heartbroken by the passing of the woman who played a central role in their lives and remained a constant source of love, wisdom, and support for generations. Mary Jo, affectionately known as “MJ,” was a familiar face to fans of Keeping Up with the Kardashians and The Kardashians. Although she largely stayed away from the spotlight, her warm personality and close relationship with her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren made her a cherished member of the famous family. Over the years, viewers watched her share heartfelt moments with Kris Jenner and the rest of the Kardashian-Jenner clan, earning admiration from fans worldwide. According to insiders who spoke with People, the family has been leaning on one another as they process the heartbreaking loss. Kris Jenner is said to be devastated by the death of her mother, with her daughters rallying around her during this difficult time. Sources described MJ as the heart of the family, someone who always brought everyone together and offered unconditional love and guidance. The insider added that MJ maintained a close bond with each of her grandchildren, including Kourtney Kardashian, Kim Kardashian, Khloé Kardashian, Rob Kardashian, Kendall Jenner, and Kylie Jenner. She was also deeply involved in the lives of her great-grandchildren, making every family gathering feel special with her warmth and kindness. Friends close to the family reportedly said MJ lived a full and meaningful life surrounded by those she loved most. Despite her age, her passing has left a profound void, with family members reflecting on the countless memories they shared over the years. They are said to be celebrating her remarkable life while mourning the loss of a woman who shaped the family’s values and traditions. Although the Kardashian-Jenner family has experienced many public milestones, insiders say this is one of the most emotional moments they have faced together. They have reportedly found comfort in spending time with one another, sharing stories about MJ, and honoring the legacy she leaves behind. As tributes continue to pour in from friends and fans, Mary Jo “MJ” Campbell is being remembered not only as Kris Jenner’s mother but also as the beloved grandmother and great-grandmother whose love touched every member of the Kardashian-Jenner family. While her presence will be deeply missed, those closest to her are determined to keep her memory alive by cherishing the values, laughter, and love she shared throughout her extraordinary 91 years.

  • | |

    KP CM launches mobilisation campaign for September…

    PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Afridi has launched a province-wide street mobilisation campaign from Khyber district ahead of the September 27 long march. Addressing a rally in Khyber, Afridi said the campaign had formally begun from the historic Bab-e-Khyber and would continue across the country before culminating in Islamabad. The movement has been given the name “Long March Bil-Qist — A Long March for Justice.” According to the chief minister, its stated objectives include seeking the release of PTI founder Imran Khan through constitutional and peaceful means, demanding equal application of the law and calling for accountability for those responsible for alleged injustice and oppression. Afridi urged young people across Pakistan to participate in the September 27 march, saying the youth had an important role in determining the country’s political future. He said the mobilisation launched in Khyber would gradually be expanded to other parts of the country and continue until the movement achieved its declared objectives. The chief minister praised residents of Khyber for their participation in the campaign. He said rally participants had travelled around 30 kilometres while demonstrating enthusiasm and commitment to the movement. Afridi claimed that preparations were under way to mobilise two million people for the September 27 march. He said more than 100,000 participants from Khyber district alone were expected to join the Islamabad-bound movement. He also claimed that membership of the campaign seeking Imran Khan’s release had reached 520,000, with Punjab currently having the largest number of members. The chief minister expressed confidence that large numbers of people from different parts of Pakistan would participate in the march. Speaking about the role of young people, Afridi said frustration with the existing political and governance system was growing among the younger generation. He called on the youth to remain determined despite political and other challenges. He argued that if young people demonstrated their strength and determination collectively, the movement could become a major political force. Afridi also criticised those he accused of contributing to Imran Khan’s imprisonment, weakening democratic institutions and affecting the country’s governance system. He maintained that the movement would remain peaceful and constitutional while pursuing its political demands. The chief minister described September 27 as a potentially significant day for Pakistan, saying participants would seek to influence the country’s political direction and play a role in determining its future.

  • |

    Zanjeerain takes a dramatic turn as Sarbuland and Rabia marry

    Pakistani prime-time drama Zanjeerain has continued to attract strong attention from viewers with its emotional storyline, intense conflicts and unexpected twists. The Hum TV drama, directed by Shahzad Kashmiri and written by Farhat Ishtiaq, explores tribal traditions and family conflicts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The drama has gained significant popularity following several heartbreaking developments, particularly the deaths of Sher Dil, Mudassir and Bano. These events changed the direction of the story and left viewers wondering how the surviving characters would move forward. After airing 30 episodes, Zanjeerain has now reached another major turning point. In the latest episodes, the jirga made a surprising decision involving Sarbuland and Rabia. As part of the traditional practice of Khoon Baha, Sarbuland was expected to marry Rabia, a decision that came as a shock to many viewers. The much-discussed twist finally reached its conclusion in Episode 30 when Sarbuland and Rabia’s Nikah was solemnized. Their marriage has generated a strong reaction online, particularly among fans who had been hoping to see the two characters together following Bano’s tragic death. Many viewers celebrated what they saw as the much-awaited Sarbiya pairing, while others questioned the sudden development and its implications for the story. Some fans were amused by how quickly the characters moved toward marriage despite the tragic events that had taken place before it. One viewer jokingly pointed out that after so many deaths and tragedies, the characters suddenly got married without much difficulty. Another fan expressed excitement over the unexpected development, saying the twist was so surprising that they wanted to celebrate. However, not everyone was pleased with the storyline. Several viewers felt that the marriage did not fit naturally with the emotional journey of the characters. Some questioned what the development meant for Mudassir and Bano, arguing that the story appeared to move on from their relationship too quickly. Others criticised the makers for turning Mudassir’s wish to protect Rabia into a marriage between her and Sarbuland. One disappointed viewer argued that Mudassir had only asked Sarbuland to keep Rabia safe, rather than marry her. Despite the mixed reactions, the Sarbuland-Rabia Nikah has clearly become one of the most talked-about developments in Zanjeerain. The unexpected turn has left fans divided, with many now eager to see how the newly married couple’s relationship unfolds in the upcoming episodes.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *