PTI Must Apologize for May 9: Rana Sana

ISLAMABAD: Adviser to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs, Rana Sanaullah, strongly criticized the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) during an interview, accusing the party of supporting anti-state and terrorist elements and failing to adequately condemn terrorism-related incidents.

Sanaullah alleged that PTI had been backing forces involved in terrorism and claimed its social media accounts were amplifying narratives similar to those of Indian media, particularly regarding the Jaffar Express train attack. He criticized both PTI and its founder for not condemning the incident as expected. He also took aim at Baloch activist Mahrang Baloch for allegedly protesting for the bodies of deceased terrorists without condemning the attack.

Referring to PTI’s popularity, Rana Sanaullah dismissed the idea that it remains a strong political force. He emphasized that the true political force is resistance, a tradition he claims PML-N has followed throughout its history. He also highlighted that PML-N’s history of opposition to the establishment has been misconstrued and asserted that their political stance was never against state institutions.

Regarding the May 9, 2023, incidents, Sanaullah stated that the state is the main plaintiff in the case and reiterated that PTI must offer an apology for the events if they wish to move forward politically. He emphasized that any concessions would be contingent upon this apology. Additionally, he mentioned the army chief’s call for accountability within the military for wrong decisions and stressed the importance of political leaders following the same principle.

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Sanaullah also commented on Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, dismissing his political relevance and criticizing his remarks about military operations, questioning his authority on the matter.

In his concluding remarks, Rana Sanaullah stressed that political opposition should not be driven by personal enmity, accusing the PTI founder of crossing that line. He urged that responsible leadership should prioritize national interests over confrontational politics.