PESHAWAR: The Chief Minister (CM) of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Ali Amin Gandapur, categorically denied allegations made by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder’s wife, Bushra Bibi, regarding being left alone at the D-Chowk during November 24 protests.
While speaking to media, the KP CM outright stated that he was with her throughout the entire event.
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Bushra Bibi previously alleged that she was deserted by the PTI leaders at a critical juncture at the D-Chowk, where she claimed that law enforcement initiated an operation against PTI supporters.
While addressing party supporters in Charsadda, she stated “I am not someone who runs away”. The former first lady detailed her experience of being alone in her vehicle at D-Chowk around 12:30 am on November 27, with no one aware of her whereabouts.
She insisted that she remained at D-Chowk because Imran Khan had directed protestors to stay put.
Bushra Bibi voiced her disappointment that, despite her pleas for assistance, other party leaders abandoned her during the security operation.
She alleged that security personnel fired at her vehicle when she refused to leave, claiming that there were witnesses to the incident.
Gandapur’s denial comes in the wake of increased tensions following November 24 protests, during which law enforcement launched an operation to forcibly dispense protestors in the capital’s red zone.
The operation led to accusations from federal officials that Bushra Bibi and Gandapur fled the scene, a claim both deny.
Reports have surfaced questioning the former first lady’s timeline. Many claim she was with Gandapur near the NADRA office at 8:30 pm on November 24.
The PTI leaders reportedly then vacated the D-Chowk, leaving party supporters in disarray.
By 11:30 pm, apparently only party supporters remained in the vicinity.
Bushra Bibi’s claims ignited controversy within the party itself, as she also visited the families of PTI workers who lost their lives during the protest.
The former first lady distributed cheques of around Rs1 milion each, as announced by the provincial government.
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Her allegations of abandonment and the subsequent responses from party leader was ridiculed by other political parties.
Punjab Information Minister, Azma Bukhari, quipped that Bushra Bibi avoids court appearance to evade accountability.