Former ticket holders say TLP’s recent protest call was “unjustified and harmful to Pakistan.”
MULTAN, November 1, 2025: In a major setback to the banned Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), several of its ticket holders from South Punjab announced their resignation from the group on Friday, citing disillusionment with the party’s recent protest strategy and alleged misuse of the Palestinian cause.
The announcement was made during a press conference in Multan, where the departing members strongly criticised TLP’s top leadership for what they described as “an attempt to stir domestic unrest under the guise of solidarity with Palestine.”
‘No Reason to Protest in Palestine’s Name’
The dissidents argued that TLP’s recent call for protests and a long march was unwarranted and detrimental to Pakistan’s stability.
“The TLP had no reason to protest in the name of Palestine,” one of the former ticket holders said. “Even the Palestinians were content with the ceasefire agreement, yet the party issued protest calls here. It was an inappropriate move when our own nation faces grave challenges.”
They added that the TLP’s actions caused more harm than good, disrupting peace and damaging Pakistan’s global reputation. “We will not be part of any movement that destabilises our country,” one speaker declared.
‘No External Pressure Behind Decision’
Former ticket holder Muhammad Hussain Babar clarified that their decision to leave was made voluntarily, without any external pressure or coercion.
Another leader, Rao Arif Sajjad, emphasised that Pakistan cannot afford chaos and internal discord, urging political and religious groups to act responsibly.
“The party’s conduct has systematically benefited the enemies of Pakistan,” one leader added, explaining their decision to distance themselves from TLP.
TTP’s Alleged Support Raises Alarms
The dissident leaders also expressed alarm over the reported expression of support for TLP by militants belonging to the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) in a recently released video.
“This alignment exposes the dangers of TLP’s trajectory,” one of them remarked, warning that such associations could further harm national security and peace efforts.
Government Crackdown on TLP
The internal rebellion follows the federal government’s formal ban on TLP last week under the Anti-Terrorism Act, after violent demonstrations linked to Gaza protests.
According to the Interior Ministry, the government had “reasonable grounds to believe” the group was involved in acts of terrorism.
The decision was approved by the federal cabinet on the recommendation of the Punjab government, following days of unrest that paralysed major highways and cities from Karachi to Islamabad, leaving several protesters and police officers dead.
A Turning Point for the Party
Political analysts believe the exodus of South Punjab ticket holders marks a critical moment for TLP, which has faced growing internal dissent amid tightening state restrictions.
Observers say the move could trigger further divisions within the group’s provincial wings as disillusionment with leadership strategies spreads.
As Pakistan navigates a delicate balance between internal stability and regional challenges, the departure of these members underscores a key message: religious politics must not come at the cost of national peace.