ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Shoaib Shaheen has clarified that the issuance of a show-cause notice to Zain Qureshi does not imply his expulsion from the party.
Addressing the media, Shaheen stated that the notice was part of an internal investigation and emphasized that the matter relates to a period of non-communication rather than a disciplinary dismissal.
The notice, sent to nine members, including four National Assembly representatives, was issued as PTI examines members’ stances and communication regarding the recent 26th constitutional amendment. Shaheen highlighted that the issue with Qureshi was his lack of contact with party leaders over a critical four-day span.
“Our concern is that he was out of touch,” Shaheen noted, underscoring PTI’s respect for Qureshi and confirming that an inquiry would proceed if necessary.
Zain Qureshi, Deputy Parliamentary Leader in the National Assembly, resigned from his position following the show-cause notice, reiterating his commitment to PTI and a transparent inquiry. “I will remain loyal to PTI and my father,” he stated.
The show-cause notices, signed by Additional Secretary General Firdous Shamim Naqvi on October 23, required responses within seven days. Other members receiving notices include Aslam Ghman, Moqdad Hussain, and Riyaz Fatiana.
In his response on X (formerly Twitter), Qureshi stated his resignation was made to ensure a “free and fair inquiry” amid allegations of siding with the government over the 26th amendment issue.
He pledged loyalty to the party, its supporters, and his father, SM Qureshi, while expressing confidence in PTI’s foundational values.