After the Islamabad rally, there has been a sudden increase in political tensions. It is true that the speech by Imran Khan’s party and particularly by Ghandapur was unacceptable. However, this is the kind of language they often use. They are known for their crude language and insults. I remember that during the elections in Gilgit and Azad Kashmir, they used similar derogatory language against Maryam Nawaz and other political opponents. But at that time, the establishment supported them. The difference now is that while they have always used foul language against political opponents, their recent remarks about the establishment have caused more controversy.
In the past, their political opponents ignored their crude remarks, but the establishment has not overlooked them. It seems that the political opponents have also stopped ignoring them and have started responding. Perhaps the power of the establishment, which Ghandapur relied on to be rude to political opponents, is diminishing, and now Ghandapur is facing political and other difficulties. Ghandapur went missing for a few hours. Although he now claims that he met with establishment representatives on his own accord, he was out of contact with anyone.
His colleagues raised concerns about his disappearance, and upon his return, he maintained a significant silence. He hasn’t spoken out directly, but there are indirect indications that he stands by his statements made during the rally. Some claim that Ghandapur has affirmed his statements made at the rally, but he himself has not publicly confirmed this. His silence has created ambiguity about his current political position.
There is also a claim that he apologized for his remarks and returned only after making amends. This is why he remains silent. After the rally, there have been arrests of PTI members from within the parliament, which has created considerable controversy. The government has been unable to defend these arrests from within the parliament. Consequently, the Speaker of the National Assembly intervened to release the arrested members. However, PTI’s own past with respect to parliamentary decorum has been less than exemplary. Today, PTI is emphasizing the sanctity of parliament, which is somewhat ironic given their past record.
The announcement that if the founder of PTI is not released within fifteen days, PTI will take matters into its own hands has gained significant attention. The ruling alliance is challenging them to prove it. I believe this challenge will increase political difficulties for them. If the founder is not released within fifteen days and PTI does nothing, they will be ridiculed. Such announcements are imprudent and reflect a destructive mindset. Political parties should not announce or act in defiance of the law. PTI’s past involvement in extremist activities has created problems that remain challenging today. Thus, PTI is not in a position to handle additional difficulties.
It is true that PTI’s culture includes a high level of foul language, rudeness, and deceit. This type of language and attitude is appreciated within the party. The founder of PTI also seems to favor this approach. Therefore, while Ghandapur’s speech has created issues for him, the founder is endorsing and encouraging him. He has even urged those who disapprove of Ghandapur’s speech to leave the party. This creates a situation where there is both criticism and encouragement.
Ghandapur’s speech has made him the second most popular leader in PTI after Imran Khan. Previously, when the rally was postponed, Ghandapur faced severe criticism and was labeled an agent of the establishment. However, this speech has turned PTI’s critics in his favor. He has successfully cleared his position in PTI with this one speech. He is no longer seen as an establishment agent. While foul language against political opponents is not new, it is essential to learn from the past. Ghandapur should note that those who used crude language in the past did not fare well. In politics, one must be able to interact with others, and such language does not foster productive dialogue.
Regarding the founder’s announcement that there will be no further discussions with the establishment, it should be noted that the establishment has never communicated with the founder directly. Discussions are held with various PTI leaders individually. There is no significant importance to this announcement; it is merely a statement.