The PTI has appointed fashion designer Khadija Shah as the national lead for strategic communications and outreach for its Election Analysis and Management Cell (EAMC).

Imran Khan’s party announced it on the social media platform X, with the notification of Shah’s appointment dated August 2.

Khadija Shah, who is the founder and driving force behind the popular fashion brand Élan, has had a tumultuous past few months. She was arrested in the aftermath of the May 9 riots, facing charges of vandalism and rioting, but was later released on bail in December 2023.

In a surprising twist, an anti-terrorism court withdrew the bailable warrants against Shah in April 2024, only to issue new warrants in another case related to the May 9 incidents.

Despite these legal challenges, she has now been entrusted with a pivotal role in the PTI’s election strategy and communications. This move comes after the former prime minister, Imran Khan, offered her a reserved National Assembly seat on the party’s ticket, which she accepted, relinquishing her US citizenship to do so.

On Monday, the PTI approached the Supreme Court to seek implementation of the apex court’s July 12 verdict on reserved seats.