LAHORE: Punjab Information Minister Uzma Bukhari has criticized the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) for its planned protest on November 24, labeling it as a pretext for collecting donations.

According to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, Bukhari’s remarks were made during a media briefing at the Directorate General Public Relations (DGPR), where she outlined her concerns regarding the protest’s true motives and the ongoing political dynamics within the region.

Bukhari expressed skepticism about PTI’s intentions, suggesting that internal conflicts over financial issues within the party’s ranks, particularly in the Punjab Assembly’s opposition lobby, are indicative of a broader financial agenda. She highlighted the logistical challenges of organizing such a protest, noting that PTI would have to traverse multiple districts to reach Islamabad, only to potentially return to Peshawar without significant public support.

In her address, Bukhari also criticized the role of a “veiled and apolitical woman” whom she accused of remotely influencing the Prime Minister. She alluded to political messages allegedly being conveyed to Ali Amin Gandapur in Adiala Jail and criticized the state of governance in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK), citing both financial and security issues as pressing concerns.

The minister further accused the KPK Chief Minister of misusing government resources for personal agendas, rather than addressing public needs such as education and healthcare. Bukhari dismissed the notion of a significant public turnout for the protest, asserting that the people of Punjab are not taking the PTI’s call seriously and that the event is unlikely to garner substantial support.

Bukhari’s remarks reflect ongoing tensions as the PTI prepares for its protest, with her statements underscoring a broader narrative of political maneuvering and public skepticism in the lead-up to November 24.