ISLAMABAD: Salman Akram Raja has reversed his decision to resign as the Secretary-General of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) following directives from the party leadership.

Confirming the development, PTI’s Information Secretary Waqas Akram stated, “Yes, Salman Akram Raja has withdrawn his resignation after the party decided to reject it and instructed him to continue in his role.” Waqas also mentioned that Raja had recently attended a meeting of PTI’s political committee, further solidifying his ongoing position within the party. Raja had initially resigned from his post after facing criticism from within PTI for not participating in the party’s protest by joining the convoy traveling from Lahore to Islamabad. His absence during the high-profile protest led to a backlash from some party members. Following the criticism, Raja released a video message addressing the controversy, explaining his stance. In his message, Raja clarified that he was unable to reach Islamabad due to severe security measures implemented by the government, such as roadblocks and bridge closures, which hindered his movement.

He further explained that he did not believe in making symbolic gestures or participating in dramatic actions simply for media coverage, such as reaching D-Chowk for a photo opportunity. Raja emphasized that it would not be appropriate for him to engage in such theatrics, stating, “I will always be honest with you, outlining what I can do and what I cannot.” Before his resignation reversal, Raja’s departure was seen alongside the resignation of Sahibzada Hamid Raza, Chairman of the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC), from a significant PTI position. Both resignations followed the abrupt conclusion of PTI’s protest in Islamabad, which had been met with a law enforcement crackdown resulting in nearly 1,000 arrests during the early hours of last Wednesday. In light of the developments, Raja’s retraction signals a moment of reconciliation between him and PTI leadership, underscoring the party’s efforts to maintain unity following the controversial protest event.