The announcement by Sohail Afridi regarding the formation of the “Imran Khan Rahai Force” has sparked a fresh debate in the country’s political landscape. The declaration, coming at the level of the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, is being viewed from different angles by both government and opposition circles. Government sources consider it a deliberate strategy to increase political pressure, while supporters of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) see it as a continuation of the political and constitutional struggle for the release of their leader.
Political analysts are drawing comparative references to the controversial organization Al-Zulfiqar, which emerged in the 1980s as a resistance structure but later suffered from state crackdowns and internal weaknesses. Critics argue that if any political party platforms the idea of a force or parallel organization, it could escalate political tension and create an impression of institutional conflict.
Furthermore, analysts have referred to Imran Khan’s previous concept of “PTI Tigers,” which never materialized in practice and became a subject of satire and mockery on social media. Opponents maintain that the “Imran Khan Rahai Force” could similarly turn out to be a slogan that generates temporary enthusiasm but fails to produce sustainable political results.
Critics claim that the outcome of the “IK Rahai Force,” announced by the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, could mirror the fate of “PTI Tigers,” meaning it may remain ineffective due to a lack of organizational structure, legal justification, and practical strategy.
On the other hand, PTI leaders assert that this initiative will operate entirely within constitutional, peaceful, and political means, aiming to organize party workers rather than provoke any confrontation. However, critics warn that announcing any “force” could further polarize the political environment, especially at a time when the country is already experiencing severe political division.
Analysts note that over the next few days, the practical nature, legal status, and organizational structure of this announcement will need to be clarified before it can be determined whether the initiative will create any effective political pressure or, like in the past, merely remain a symbolic slogan.
