PTI Protest Still Ongoing, Says KP CM Gandapur Amid Allegations of Oppression

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur stated that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) protest remains active, emphasizing that only party founder Imran Khan has the authority to call it off. Speaking at a press conference in Mansehra on Wednesday, Gandapur accused the government of oppressive tactics against PTI members, including the registration of baseless cases.

“Our leader, Imran Khan, is in jail, and even his wife, Bushra Bibi, was imprisoned,” he said, reaffirming PTI’s commitment to peaceful protests and constitutional supremacy.

The PTI initially announced a temporary suspension of its protest early Wednesday after a midnight crackdown by law enforcement, which dispersed party workers. However, Gandapur maintained that the sit-in would continue as per Khan’s directives.

Criticism of Government and Judiciary

The KP chief minister accused the government of stifling PTI’s activities, stating that the party was routinely denied permission to hold rallies or processions. He also criticized the judiciary, alleging a lack of justice for PTI.

“Whenever we announce a rally, we face restrictions. Even the courts are not providing justice,” he said.

Gandapur condemned the violence during the protests, which he claimed resulted in the deaths of several PTI workers and injuries to hundreds. He asserted that PTI workers retaliated only after facing violence.

Financial Compensation for Martyred Workers

Gandapur announced financial support for the families of PTI workers killed during the protests, pledging Rs10 million for each family. He also vowed to hold those responsible for the violence accountable by filing an FIR.

Criticism from the Government

Meanwhile, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar ridiculed the PTI’s handling of the protest, labeling it a failure. He mockingly referred to Gandapur as “Ali Amin Bhagoora (deserter)” and dismissed the protest as a “missed call” rather than a “final call.”

Internal Party Discontent

PTI leader Shaukat Yousafzai expressed disappointment over the abrupt suspension of the protest. Speaking on Geo News, Yousafzai criticized the party leadership for its lack of clear guidance, which he said demoralized workers who had gathered for three days starting November 24.

Personal Allegations by Gandapur

Gandapur also claimed he was personally targeted during the protests, alleging attempts to abduct and assassinate him. He reaffirmed the resolve of his province, stating, “This province knows how to claim its mandate and rights. The nation cannot be enslaved through bullets and violence.”

The political standoff continues as PTI leaders push for accountability and justice following the protests’ violent fallout.