Barrister Gohar removed, Asad Qaiser appointed new PTI Chairman: reports

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan has made significant changes in the party’s leadership structure, removing Barrister Gohar Ali Khan from the position of chairman and nominating former National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser as his successor, according to local media reports.

The decision was confirmed by Barrister Ali Zafar, who, following a meeting with Imran Khan, explained that the move was intended to provide experienced leaders the opportunity to take charge of the party.

In another key change, Ali Muhammad Khan was appointed as PTI's new Secretary General, replacing Salman Akram Raja. Although some earlier reports suggested Raja’s resignation, Barrister Zafar clarified that he was, in fact, removed from the position by Imran Khan.

Imran Khan has scheduled a meeting with Asad Qaiser and Ali Muhammad Khan at Adiala Jail to finalise the transition of leadership.

The reshuffle comes amid growing internal criticism of PTI leadership for their lack of participation in protests in Islamabad, as well as ongoing unrest within the party following a crackdown on demonstrations that led to the arrest of hundreds of PTI supporters.

Barrister Gohar Ali Khan had taken over as the party chairman in December 2023, following Imran Khan’s disqualification in the Toshakhana case.