Imran Khan’s leadership, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, has been criticized for failing to rally public support, while only focusing on rhetoric and populism. His anti-Army rhetoric has alienated him from significant portions of the public, who see military in a high esteem. Of late, party’s position on the military institution, has generated a reputation of inconsistency and opportunism. The collapse of the PTI and Khan’s waning public appeal, indicate a watershed moment in Pakistan’s politics, asking for the genuine leadership, which is capable of uniting the country besides achieving economic and social stability.

In Pakistan’s dynamic and frequently stormy political scene, the emergence and subsequent collapse of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) under stewardship of Imran Khan (IK) is a phenomenon that requires close examination. The narrative around the PTI and its leader has changed considerably, reflecting not just the complexity of leadership, but also the public’s severe dissatisfaction. This opinion article examines the circumstances that have contributed to the PTI’s current political status, as well as the larger ramifications for Pakistan’s future.

Some commentators argue that the PTI’s current failure to mobilise huge audiences is simply, due to a lack of effective leadership. The presumption is that a charismatic leader like Imran Khan, can still rally popular support, notwithstanding the poor economic situation. However, this viewpoint oversimplifies the situation and ignores a more complex reality. The public’s unwillingness to........

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