Pakistan Tahreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Central Executive Committee (CEC) has appointed Javed Hashmi as its new president. PTI chairman Imran Khan made this announcement while addressing a press conference held in connection with the merging of Pakistan Democratic Party with PTI.
The PTI chairman denied any connection with the Inter Services Intelligence (ISI). He said that the ISI did play a role in the 2002 elections and he was also contacted, but this time round it had not approached him. "ISI did not contact me but I am not sure about other political parties," he added.
Responding to a question regarding Mehrangate scandal, he said Javed Hasmhi had given evidence to prove his innocence; however, PML-N took money from agencies and the Mehrangate scandal should be investigated properly. "All the names, involved in the scandal should be made public," he added.
He categorically stated that if anyone proved that Imran Khan had taken money from ISI he will quit the world of politics. He announced that from March 25 the PTI will launch the country's biggest membership campaign, which will last for two months. He also disclosed that the PTI would hold party's election, in which the party members will elect their leadership. The PTI would be the first political party in Pakistan that will conduct party elections. "We do not believe in dynastic politics, the PTI will be a true democratic party," he added.
When asked about MQM's protest against extortionism in Karachi, he said it was a good sign that it has learnt a lesson from its past mistakes. "Extortion culture is destroying Karachi and one should support anyone who raises voice against it," he added. According to him, after a deal between the PPP and PML-N, it is obvious now that the elections would be held on its schedule time. The two parties have united in fear of the PTI Tsunami and both supported the 20th amendment to bring a caretaker government and make of their choice. Moreover, at present the party was not thinking of making an alliance with other political party, it was only focused on its membership campaign and party's elections.