Party dismisses The Economists claims as malicious and says Bushra Bibi remains unshaken
A major political debate has erupted after a British magazine published an extensive investigative report alleging that former First Lady Bushra Bibi exercised significant influence over critical decisions within Imran Khans government. The Pakistan Tehreek e Insaf PTI has firmly rejected these allegations calling them defamatory and politically motivated.
What Triggered the Controversy
Earlier today The Economist released a detailed investigation claiming that during Imran Khans tenure Bushra Bibi:
• Influenced key government appointments
• Participated in discussions related to state matters
• Advised the former prime minister through spiritual consultation
• Approved some official engagements including government flights
• Played a role in the removal of senior officials including the then DG ISI
Sources cited by the magazine alleged that intelligence officials occasionally shared sensitive information with Bushra Bibi believing she would relay it to the prime minister as spiritual insights.
The article also referenced claims that:
• Bushra Bibi practiced rituals connected to spiritual beliefs
• Individuals such as Jahangir Tareen and Aun Chaudhry were distanced under her influence
• PTIs reform agenda weakened due to increasing reliance on spiritual guidance
The report further questioned educational claims about Bushra Bibi and her sister stating that no verifiable academic records were found at Queen Mary College.
Inside the Investigation
A reporter involved in the story told our news correspondent that the publication was the result of:
• Ten months of evidence gathering
• Three months of verification
• Cross checking internal ministry data documentation and multiple accounts
She said the team uncovered layers of decision making linked to the former First Ladys influence. The reporter further claimed that some high level decisions were made by Bushra Bibi even in the presence of General Retired Qamar Javed Bajwa.
PTIs Response A Malicious Campaign
PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan strongly rejected the article describing it as:
• Frivolous
• Baseless
• An attempt to malign Bushra Bibi and the PTI founder
According to Gohar:
• Bushra Bibi remains resilient despite being incarcerated
• Similar allegations were dismissed in the past
• International publications are not unquestionable authorities
• The party is considering legal action against the UK magazine
Gohar argued that Bushra Bibi has consistently been subjected to political attacks aimed at discrediting Imran Khan and the PTI movement.
Political Fallout and National Response
The report has reignited discussions regarding the role of unelected individuals in decision making and the influence of spiritual beliefs on governance.
Opponents claim the findings confirm longstanding concerns while supporters insist the report is part of a broader narrative targeting PTI leadership.
The Economist stands by its reporting while PTI maintains that the publication is politically biased and defamatory.