Tensions continue to rise within the ranks of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) as senior party leaders openly express differences with Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur’s recent media statements.

Speaking to the media at a protest camp in Peshawar, PTI KP President Junaid Akbar confirmed that the party’s senior leadership has taken notice of CM Gandapur’s controversial remarks. He stated that both sides have been urged to remain patient, and a political committee has been tasked with resolving the matter swiftly.

Akbar acknowledged past differences between himself and the Chief Minister but emphasized that they stood united when called upon by the party’s founding chairman. “The workers are not aligned with me, Asad Qaiser, or Gandapur—they are with the founding chairman,” he said, adding that province-wide protests will be launched next week to demand the chairman’s release.

He further declined to comment on Gandapur’s alleged double-dealing, stating, “Only God knows what the Chief Minister is doing.” Akbar also ruled out any move to oust the Chief Minister, stating, “He was appointed by the founding chairman, and we respect that.”

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Meanwhile, PTI Central Information Secretary Sheikh Waqas Ahmad warned that any leader airing internal party issues publicly will face disciplinary action. Speaking to a private TV channel, he said the leadership is in contact with the party founder to address such matters.

On a separate note, Sheikh Waqas confirmed that consultation with Maulana Fazlur Rehman regarding a potential alliance with JUI-F has been completed. Maulana has reportedly asked for time until April 15 for further deliberation.

Adding to the internal friction, PTI Peshawar Region President Muhammad Atif Khan revealed that he had been contacted by senior party figures including Salman Akram Raja and Aleema Khan, who instructed him not to bring internal matters into the media spotlight.

Atif Khan expressed disapproval of Gandapur’s recent remarks against senior leaders like Asad Qaiser and Shakil Khan, saying, “Disagreements are fine, but personal attacks are unacceptable.” He emphasized that no forward bloc is being formed within the party, and all leaders are united in their efforts to secure the release of the founding chairman.

Responding to Gandapur’s criticism, Atif Khan demanded an inquiry and asserted, “We also have the right to respond to Gandapur’s statements. His remarks could damage the party’s movement for the chairman’s release.”