PTI’s August 5 Protest A Divided House and a Fading Flame

PTI’s August 5 Protest A Divided House and a Fading Flame

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) is set to hold a nationwide protest on August 5. However, a glaring absence from this protest is Islamabad — the symbolic center of political power. This decision, far from being strategic, exposes the deepening fractures within the party. What should have been a show of strength for Imran Khan’s release has turned into a showcase of internal division.

Leadership in Disarray

There is a clear disconnect between PTI’s core workers and its current leadership. While ordinary party workers are ready to come out on the streets for Imran Khan’s freedom, the top brass seems reluctant — merely fulfilling formalities with no genuine intent to launch a decisive movement. Today, the party leadership is no longer in the hands of Khan’s closest and most politically seasoned allies. Instead, individuals with little political acumen — including some of Khan’s own family members — are now the face of the struggle.

Imran Khan’s sisters, his wife, and even his sons (from afar) have issued statements or acted in ways that appear to contradict Khan’s original vision. Meanwhile, the current party leadership seems more focused on maintaining their personal positions rather than achieving Khan’s release or reviving PTI’s ideological mission.

A Hijacked Movement

Overseas Pakistanis and PTI’s dedicated workers have sacrificed immensely — emotionally, financially, and even physically — in their support for Imran Khan. Their sacrifices now appear to have been hijacked by a few opportunists who neither reflect the spirit of Khan’s leadership nor possess the vision to carry forward his mission.

The protest on August 5 might give an impression to Khan that the leadership is active, but in reality, the workers are disillusioned. The dissatisfaction is growing, and without serious introspection and realignment, the party risks further alienating its support base.

The Result?

In the words of an old Urdu proverb:

“کھایا پیا کچھ نہیں، گلاس توڑا بارہ آنہ”

(“A lot of fuss over nothing.”)

This aptly summarizes the likely outcome of the August 5 protest if the current direction continues. Symbolism without substance won’t revive the party’s fortunes — nor will it lead to Imran Khan’s release.

A Message for PTI Leadership and Workers:

It is high time for PTI’s leadership, workers, and Imran Khan’s family to put aside their internal differences and personal interests. A fragmented movement cannot bring about national change or secure Khan’s release.

This is a moment of truth. Either unite and organize a powerful, nationwide protest led by genuine leadership and guided by Khan’s original vision — or prepare to watch PTI’s political career fade into irrelevance.

PTI was never just a party. It was a movement. Revive the spirit — or bury the dream.

Syed Ali Raza Naqvi Bukhari

Unity of Peace, Economic Reform, and Global Unity

Founder & Chairman of Tehreek Istehkam Pakistan, and the author of “Law of God” and “Social Democratic System.”advocates for truth, social justice, and reform in all sectors of society.