Ali Amin Gandapur’s Downfall: Rift With Imran Khan’s Wife and Sister Led to Political Collapse
October 9, 2025
ISLAMABAD: The sudden resignation of Ali Amin Gandapur as Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has sent shockwaves through political circles, highlighting the growing power struggle within Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and the influence of Bushra Bibi and Aleema Khan — two of the most trusted figures in Imran Khan’s inner circle.
Sources say Gandapur stepped down after being directly told by Imran Khan from jail that his time as CM had come to an end. His fall marks a dramatic turn for one of PTI’s most vocal loyalists, who once stood firm alongside the party founder during the toughest political storms.
Rift With Bushra Bibi
The cracks reportedly began last year when Gandapur disagreed with Bushra Bibi’s insistence on pushing the PTI protest march to Islamabad’s D-Chowk, despite his advice to stop at Sangjani for security reasons. His concerns were overruled, and the march — which later turned violent — created a lasting divide.
After the incident, Bushra Bibi publicly claimed she had been “left alone” at D-Chowk, a statement Gandapur strongly rejected, saying he “remained with her from beginning to end.” The disagreement marked the start of a strained relationship that never recovered.
Clash With Aleema Khan
The more recent and politically damaging confrontation came when Gandapur openly accused Aleema Khan — Imran Khan’s sister — of dividing the party and being “supported” by certain institutions. In a video message, Gandapur alleged that Aleema was involved in social media campaigns aimed at discrediting loyal PTI members and creating internal factions.
He went so far as to claim that plans were being made to position Aleema as PTI’s future chairperson, urging transparency in party decisions. Aleema Khan, however, dismissed the allegations, saying Imran Khan “was amused” when told about Gandapur’s claims.
Losing Imran Khan’s Confidence
According to PTI insiders, Gandapur’s public criticism of Aleema crossed a line. Aleema remains one of the few direct links between Imran Khan and the outside world, making any confrontation with her politically suicidal.
With both Bushra Bibi’s disapproval and Aleema’s influence over PTI’s media narrative, Gandapur found himself isolated within the party. Senior leaders gradually distanced themselves, and even loyalists stopped defending him publicly.
“After those remarks against Aleema, there was no way back,” said a senior PTI member. “He lost the confidence of the people closest to Imran Khan — and once that happens, no amount of loyalty can save you.”
A Power Struggle That Redefined PTI Politics
Analysts say Gandapur’s exit is more than just a leadership change — it’s a sign of deep divisions within PTI’s upper ranks, where personal loyalties and influence now play a decisive role in shaping political futures.
As PTI continues to face challenges with its founder behind bars, the Gandapur episode underscores how internal rivalries can reshape the political landscape of one of Pakistan’s most powerful parties.
