PTI shows the exit door to Sheikh Rashid

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has chosen to part ways with Awami Muslim League leader and former interior minister Sheikh Rashid.

The PTI announced the award of party tickets for the National Assembly seats on Friday, leaving many constituencies vacant, especially in Central Punjab.

The PTI is making its own play in the constituencies where Sheikh Rasheed, once an ally of the party, is vying for a seat. Notably, Shahryar Riaz has become the PTI’s choice against the seasoned politician in NA-56, sparking immediate attention.

Adding a twist to the political landscape, PTI has endorsed Samabia Tahir for NA-57, showcasing a diverse lineup for the upcoming elections.

Interestingly, Sheikh Rashid Shafiq, Sheikh Rashid’s nephew, did not secure a PTI ticket, and Aleem Khan’s constituency in NA-117, Lahore, remains without a nominated candidate.

PTI reveals Sindh Assembly candidates

Senior PTI leader Zulfi Bukhari failed to secure a ticket from NA-50, and Dr Babar Awan from Islamabad also didn’t receive the party’s endorsement.

The suspense continues in various constituencies, including NA-132 in Kasur, where PML-N president Shehbaz Sharif is set to contest.

The fate of four Lahore constituencies – NA-117, NA-119, NA-120, and NA-125 – hangs in the balance as PTI is yet to unveil its candidates.

Decisions for NA-74 Sialkot, NA-82 Sargodha, and NA-94 are also pending, keeping the political landscape uncertain.

PTI’s leader Shafqat Mahmood decided to withdraw his nomination papers. In a post on X, Mahmood announced that he has decided to withdraw from the election and not to become a candidate from any constituency.