RAWALPINDI: Former federal minister Fawad Chaudhry denied reports of his departure from Pakistan Tehreek e Insaf (PTI), asserting that those who depart eventually return, during a media interaction at an anti-terrorism court in Rawalpindi.
Former PTI chief whip Shireen Mazari was also present at the court, where several past and current party members face charges stemming from the May 9, 2023 incidents, when PTI workers attacked military installations under Imran Khan’s leadership.
Fawad, addressing journalists, mentioned his appearance before the court regarding the May 9 violence, highlighting the challenges he faced and the need for resolution, highlighting about going through a “difficult time” and the need for the “bitterness” to fade away. He expressed intent to share his perspective on the events once the time permits.
“When our turn comes, we will tell our story,” Fawad said.
Regarding negotiations, Fawad suggested PTI engage with all stakeholders, including Maulana Fazl ur Rehman from Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl.
However, a day earlier, PTI Information Secretary Raoof Hasan, speaking to a private TV channel, expressed skepticism about Fawad’s return to PTI, noting the party founder’s lack of approval for such a move.
Separately, in a statement while talking to a TV news channel, PTI leader Sher Afzal Marwat admitted that “some friends” were trying to re-induct Fawad in the party, however, the party leadership and workers had reservations over his return.
“Those who levelled allegations on the party founder and the party itself, there is no chance of their return to the fold,” he said.
Fawad’s purported exit from PTI followed the arrest of Imran Khan, with his reaction causing a stir. Despite announcing a break from politics and resigning from party positions, reports suggest he may return.
Meanwhile, while replying to a query about her return to PTI, Mazari said at the moment she could not say anything about it as she had quit politics for now. She said they were facing court trial regularly and it seemed there was no terrorist left but PTI members.
On the other hand, Awami Muslim League chief and former ally of the PTI, Sheikh Rashid, also arrived at the ATC.
When questioned by journalists about his association with the party, he said he was not in contact with any PTI leader including its founder.
Rashid also demanded the release of all the innocents arrested in May 9 cases.
