PTI Rallies Behind Imran Khan Amid Growing Political Tensions

In a political rally, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf leaders backed Imran Khan against alleged narratives harming his reputation, asserting that such tactics increase his popularity. Meanwhile, the country's Defence Minister criticized Khan's rhetoric as a national security threat, igniting further political debate and opposition support for the armed forces.

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has declared that any attempts to tarnish the image of party founder and former Prime Minister Imran Khan will only boost his popularity, according to Dawn. This sentiment was expressed during a rally at the Peshawar Sports Complex, where PTI leaders, along with allies from the Tehreek-i-Tahafuz-i-Ayeen-i-Pakistan (TTAP), supported Khan and condemned recent critical remarks against him, calling for accountability to deter future occurrences.

Addressing the assembly, Mehmood Khan Achakzai, head of the Pakhtunkhwa Milli Awami Party and TTAP, criticized undemocratic elements for using derogatory language against 'genuine political movements' like PTI and TTAP. He emphasized the importance of unity and constitutional supremacy for the nation's growth. Concerns were also raised about the potential negative impact of imposing a governor's rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, as noted by Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, who denied PTI's responsibility for the region's unrest.

The rally resulted in a resolution that hailed Imran Khan as a national hero and criticized narratives branding him as a security risk. This follows statements from Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry of the Inter-Services Public Relations, who labeled Khan's rhetoric a national security threat. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif reiterated the state's inability to tolerate actions threatening national stability, amidst a backdrop of political leaders expressing support for the armed forces.

(With inputs from agencies.)