PTI Final Call: Reasons for Failure and the way forward

PTI Final Call: Reasons for Failure and the way forward 

As we all know, PTI’s final call culminated in the tragedy of Islamabad, marked by state oppression and significant loss. While the state and establishment’s role in escalating the crisis is undeniable, PTI must also introspect. Why did the situation deteriorate to this extent, and what should be the future course of action?

Below is a critical analysis of PTI’s mistakes in this call, followed by suggestions for future strategies.

The Final Call: Key Flaws and Reasons for Failure

Poor Timing

The timing of PTI’s final call was far from ideal. The party's workers were still recovering from the mysterious retreat of October 4. Meanwhile, the government and establishment had achieved significant legislative milestones, such as constitutional amendments ensuring judicial appointments, tenure extensions for service chiefs, and the establishment of constitutional courts. Launching a protest in such a climate was bound to face challenges.

Misuse of the Term "Final Call"

Movements thrive on continuous struggle, not one-off “final calls.” Such terminology creates a psychological “now or never” mindset among supporters, which weakens their resolve after a failed attempt. Movements should instead build momentum gradually until circumstances naturally create a decisive moment.

Lack of Preparation

A major campaign requires at least 2–3 months of preparation. PTI could have used this time for rallies, corner meetings, and digital mobilization to build momentum. While logistical challenges existed in other provinces, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa could have been better utilized as a base. For example, Dr. Tahir-ul-Qadri’s revolution march in 2014 benefited from nearly 18 months of preparation.

Failure to Build Consensus

PTI failed to create a national consensus for the final call, once again opting for a solo flight. Other parties, lawyers, labor unions, and farmer organizations could have been mobilized for a broader coalition. Engagement with figures like Mehmood Achakzai, Akhtar Mengal, and Jamaat-e-Islami could have strengthened the movement and reduced the chances of state violence. Even partial alignment on issues like election rigging or Form-45 manipulation could have yielded positive results.

Ineffective Use of the Base Camp

PTI could have called workers from other provinces to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa a week in advance, housing them in local accommodations. This would have created a massive convoy on November 24, with the appearance of a nationwide movement. Even mobilizing PTI’s union council officials in KP could have increased participation to unprecedented levels.

Poor Logistical Arrangements

The lack of basic facilities such as generators, tents, and food supplies showed weak planning. Participants were unprepared for a prolonged sit-in, diminishing their resolve.

Strategic Mistakes

The decision to march directly to D-Chowk was a tactical error. As a dead-end, it leaves protesters vulnerable without adding pressure on the administration. A better option would have been to stage a phased protest at locations like Kashmir Highway or G-9, areas with better accessibility to food supplies and more strategic leverage.

Absence of Leadership

When the crowd finally reached D-Chowk, PTI’s leadership should have been visibly present on stage. Yet, apart from Ali Am
in Gandapur and Bushra Bibi, the core leadership seemed disengaged, with the chairman failing even to issue a statement on Twitter.

The Way Forward

Focus on the Islamabad Incident

• Pass a condemnation resolution for the tragedy in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly.
• Organize peaceful protests across KP during a three-day mourning period.
• Compile comprehensive data on the martyrs and injured participants.
• Conduct autopsies under provincial supervision to preserve evidence for legal proceedings.

Legal and Organizational Actions

• File FIRs in KP against those responsible for the tragedy, including government and administrative officials.
• Collect and secure all evidence, including videos, photographs, and physical markings.
• Provide legal and financial support to the victims’ families.

Diplomatic and Political Engagement

• Share evidence of the incident with foreign embassies and international organizations.
• Convene an all-parties conference to create a unified stance on the incident.

Avoid Leadership Overhaul for Now

While the leadership is facing criticism for the march’s failure, any change should be gradual and well-planned to avoid further destabilizing the party.

Structural Reforms

To prevent future setbacks, PTI must separate its parliamentary and organizational leadership. Party positions should be entrusted to ideologically committed, resilient workers. Initiate an internal restructuring campaign to prepare for long-term mobilization.

Avoid Immediate Protests

Refrain from launching another protest immediately. Instead, focus on diplomatic channels and political alliances to push for key demands, such as restoring electoral mandates and securing Imran Khan’s release. Begin a phased mobilization campaign for future protests.

Restore Public Support

Adopt a phased strategy for long-term struggle. Center the narrative on public issues like inflation and unemployment to galvanize mass support against the government.

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