Journalists displeased with suspension of Afrasiab Khattak and Bushra Gohar's membership

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 13 November 2018

The Awami National Party has suspended the memberships of Afrasiab Khattak and Bushra Gohar, prompting backlash from journalists. Critics argue that this decision harms the party's reputation and distances it from dissenting voices.

Summary

ISLAMABAD - Journalists are not happy that the Awami National Party had suspended the membership of its leaders – Afrasiab Khattak and Bushra Gohar.

For Channel 24 anchor Nasim Zehra, “ending membership of prominent individuals like @a_siab & @BushraGohar ANP somewhat dwarfs and diminishes itself as a political party.”

Matiullah Jan, formerly with Waqt News termed the decision shameful. “What a shame. There was no cause mentioned in the show cause notices. It seems some political parties’ arrears are still pending with the government.”

Tahir Khan refused to comment on the decision but added that the two leaders are an asset for the party. “Being a journalist, i cannot comment on a party's decision but people like @a_siab and @BushraGohar are the real asset of a party.”

Columnist Mohsarraf Zaidi also felt sad. “Distressing that instead of treasuring voices of dissent, @ANPMarkaz has distanced itself from them.”

The news also disturbed Raza Rumi, Editor of Daily Times. “Extremely disturbing to see how ANP's myopic leadership is treating courageous, progressive politicians (and activists) @a_siab & @BushraGohar Bacha Khan must be turning in his grave. What has become of his movement. If power is the objective then merge ANP with PMLQ.”

KEY POINTS:

• ANP suspended membership of leaders Afrasiab Khattak and Bushra Gohar.
• Journalists criticize the suspension as damaging to the party.
• Notable figures, including Nasim Zehra and Matiullah Jan, express disappointment.
• Lack of reasons provided for the suspension raises concerns.
• The decision is seen as a distancing from progressive voices within the party.