Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Information Minister Shafi Jan has firmly dismissed reports suggesting the formation of a forward bloc within Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), insisting that the party remains united under the leadership of Chief Minister Suhail Afridi.
Speaking during a television interview, Shafi Jan said speculation about divisions within the provincial assembly lacks credibility and is not supported by facts. He maintained that all PTI lawmakers in the province continue to stand behind the chief minister and the party’s leadership.
The minister stated that Suhail Afridi enjoys the confidence of the parliamentary party and was nominated for the position by PTI founder and former prime minister Imran Khan. According to him, lawmakers remain committed to the party’s direction and political agenda.
Rejecting claims that a significant number of lawmakers are dissatisfied with the provincial government, Shafi Jan challenged those promoting such reports to identify specific members allegedly involved. He argued that any elected representative who deviates from the party line risks losing political relevance and public support.
The information minister also referred to former PTI leaders Mahmood Khan and Pervez Khattak as examples of politicians whose influence declined after distancing themselves from the party’s core leadership.
Addressing speculation regarding a possible forward bloc, Shafi Jan said no evidence has emerged to support the claims. He emphasized that rumors about groups of 20, 30, or even 50 lawmakers breaking ranks remain unsubstantiated. According to him, not a single legislator has publicly confirmed participation in any such effort.
The minister further asserted that PTI lawmakers were elected largely on the strength of the party’s platform and leadership. He argued that individual politicians would struggle to secure significant electoral support if they contested independently without the party’s backing.
The remarks come amid reports that several PTI members of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly have expressed concerns regarding provincial governance and internal party affairs. Media reports have suggested that dissatisfied lawmakers may hold meetings to discuss their reservations and future strategy.
Meanwhile, Chief Minister Suhail Afridi is reportedly engaging with party legislators in an effort to address concerns and strengthen unity within the provincial government. PTI leaders continue to insist that the party remains cohesive despite ongoing political speculation.
