Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) February 8 rally in Swabi drew fewer attendees than expected, with insiders pointing to a funding crunch and internal disagreements as key factors. Supporters gathered to mark the first anniversary of the 2024 general elections, which the party claims were marred by rigging.
Party insiders revealed only 5,000–6,000 people attended, far below projections. Empty spaces in the rally arena highlighted the shortfall. Workers from Mardan, Peshawar, and Malakand regions participated in smaller numbers than anticipated.
The financial constraints stemmed from lawmakers’ inability to arrange transport for supporters. Provincial assembly members and ministers reportedly lacked funds to bus workers to the event. While Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur had previously financed such efforts, no official budget was allocated this time. Some lawmakers privately requested aid, but Gandapur’s office confirmed no additional money was released.
PTI Regional President Muhammad Asim acknowledged the lack of funds but insisted supporters still turned out “in significant numbers.” Meanwhile, CM Adviser Barrister Saif dismissed claims of poor attendance, blaming blocked convoys from Punjab for the gap.
Internal rifts further complicated mobilization efforts. Sources said provincial leaders disagreed over resource distribution, weakening coordination. Despite these hurdles, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan used the platform to link Pakistan’s economic stability to political unity, urging action on the country’s financial crisis.
CM spokesperson Faraz Mughal clarified that Gandapur used personal funds to assist a few lawmakers but stressed no government money supported the event. The mixed messaging and funding shortages underscored the challenges facing PTI’s post-election strategy.
