PTI, Aleema Khan, and the Establishment: Questions, Concerns, and Possibilities

Once again, Pakistan’s politics stands at a crossroads. The leadership of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), its narrative, and its relationship with the state institutions are under intense debate. In this context, Aleema Khan — sister of former Prime Minister Imran Khan — and her recent political statements have sparked a new conversation.
Traditionally, Aleema Khan has been perceived as someone who stays away from active politics. However, since Imran Khan’s arrest and the events of May 9, her statements suggest a new dimension in PTI’s narrative. In recent days, she has not only openly criticized the establishment but has also questioned why certain “narratives” are being imposed if a true system of justice exists.
Her comments cannot be dismissed as mere personal opinions. She is not only Imran Khan’s sister but is also considered among his closest advisers. Her recent tone indicates that within PTI, once again, tough questions are being raised about the role of the establishment.
This question is now echoing not just in political circles but among the general public: What is PTI’s actual demand? Does it seek reconciliation with the establishment, or complete independence from institutions? Does it aim to return to power by challenging the current political setup, or is Imran Khan’s release its primary goal? The answer remains ambiguous.
Some factions within PTI advocate for mending ties with the establishment, while others remain committed to the “true freedom” narrative. Aleema Khan’s recent rhetoric suggests that the party leadership is still unwilling to let go of past grievances.
In Pakistan’s current scenario, maintaining law and order is the biggest challenge. The events of May 9 demonstrated that when political narratives clash with state institutions, the entire society pays the price. If PTI truly sees itself as a national political party, it must strike a balance between its rhetoric and actions — prioritizing dialogue over confrontation with state institutions.
An interesting reality is that both the Pakistan Muslim League (N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party are quietly pleased that Imran Khan continues to escalate his battle with the establishment instead of ending it. This very conflict is the reason he remains behind bars, his party is facing ongoing struggles, and he has been sidelined from the political arena.
Yet paradoxically, this same conflict has helped solidify the power of the PML-N and PPP. In fact, Imran Khan’s very existence has become the biggest political insurance policy for these two parties.
Even within PTI, there is a clear understanding of this. Party leaders are well aware that each confrontational move by their leadership is only harming their own cause. But Imran Khan’s personality is such that he listens to no one, nor does he hold back his words. He continues to push an aggressive narrative — one that is ultimately detrimental to both him and his party.
So the question remains: Can there be a workable reconciliation between PTI, the establishment, and the current political system?If individuals like Aleema Khan move forward seriously and prioritize “national interest” over “personal loyalty,” a middle ground might be possible. But reconciliation will only come when all parties — including the establishment, the government, and PTI — are willing to take a step back from their rigid positions.At present, however, such willingness seems unlikely.
Aleema Khan’s recent activism has sparked a fresh debate — but this debate should not be confined to personalities alone. The real question is whether PTI is ready to find its place in an institutional state structure. And whether the establishment is willing to revisit and reassess its past policies.Until these fundamental questions are addressed, peace will remain temporary, and politics will remain uncertain.