Rawalpindi witnessed fresh political tensions within Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) as Aleema Khan publicly questioned Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi over the provincial budget process. The exchange took place during a protest outside Adiala Jail, where PTI leaders and family members of the party founder gathered after authorities denied them a meeting with Imran Khan.
Aleema Khan Questions Budget Approval Process
RAWALPINDI: A sharp exchange emerged between Aleema Khan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi over the approval of the provincial budget, highlighting growing concerns within PTI regarding key political decisions.
According to Beyond Time News, the discussion unfolded during a sit-in protest organized by PTI leaders and members of Imran Khan’s family. Protesters gathered after authorities prevented them from meeting the party founder.
As Afridi spoke to journalists, Aleema Khan interrupted his media interaction and questioned why the provincial government was moving forward with budget-related matters before consulting Imran Khan.
She maintained that the PTI founder had previously instructed party leaders to discuss budget decisions with him before taking any final steps.
Demand for Access to PTI Founder
Aleema Khan urged the chief minister to prioritize securing a meeting with Imran Khan instead of advancing the budget process.
“Why are you passing the budget? First arrange my meeting with him,” she said while addressing Afridi.
She further claimed that the issue had also surfaced during the previous budget cycle and insisted that party leadership should follow the founder’s guidance on major policy matters.
In addition, Aleema alleged that Imran Khan was being kept isolated from party affairs. She described the situation as unconstitutional and unlawful, arguing that restrictions on meetings were affecting internal party consultations.
Sohail Afridi Reaffirms Loyalty to Imran Khan
Earlier, Chief Minister Sohail Afridi reiterated that his position depended entirely on the directives of the PTI founder.
Speaking to reporters, he dismissed speculation about divisions within the party and rejected reports suggesting the formation of a forward bloc in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Afridi stated that only Imran Khan could decide the future of the PTI-led government in the province. He emphasized that he would continue serving as chief minister until he received different instructions from the party founder.
His remarks came amid ongoing discussions about internal political dynamics within PTI and reports of differences among some party lawmakers.
Read more:Aleema Khan Rejects Reports of Imran Khan Meeting Former Army Chief in Jail
KP Cabinet Approves Provincial Budget
Despite the political debate, Afridi said the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa cabinet had already approved a balanced and people-focused budget.
He explained that the provincial government had prioritized key sectors, including healthcare, education, agriculture, youth development, and environmental protection.
At the same time, he criticized the upcoming federal budget, claiming it could place additional financial pressure on ordinary citizens.
According to Afridi, the KP government remains focused on protecting public interests while addressing provincial development needs.
PTI Faces Internal Challenges Ahead of Budget Season
The latest exchange comes at a crucial time for PTI as governments across Pakistan prepare to present their budgets for the next fiscal year.
Political observers believe that disagreements over decision-making processes and access to the party founder continue to influence discussions within PTI. Meanwhile, party leaders maintain that unity remains intact and that all major decisions will align with Imran Khan’s vision.
As budget announcements approach, attention is likely to remain focused on how PTI manages internal coordination while navigating broader political and economic challenges.
FAQs
Why did Aleema Khan object to the KP budget process?
Aleema Khan argued that major budget decisions should be discussed with Imran Khan before receiving final approval, citing previous instructions from the PTI founder.
Where did the exchange between Aleema Khan and Sohail Afridi take place?
The exchange occurred during a sit-in protest in Rawalpindi after PTI leaders and family members were denied a meeting with Imran Khan.
What did Sohail Afridi say about his position as chief minister?
Afridi said he would remain Khyber Pakhtunkhwa chief minister until Imran Khan issued new directions regarding the provincial leadership.
Has the KP cabinet approved the provincial budget?
Yes, according to Afridi, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa cabinet has approved the provincial budget.
What concerns did Aleema Khan raise?
She alleged that Imran Khan was being kept isolated and argued that restrictions on meetings were preventing proper consultation on important party matters.
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