PTI-backed independent candidates who secured victories in the 2024 general elections

 PTI-backed independent candidates who secured victories in the 2024 general elections have embarked on a strategic move by joining forces with the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC), as announced by PTI leader Barrister Gohar Ali Khan in Islamabad. This significant development was unveiled during a press conference where key figures including PTI PM candidate Omar Ayub Khan, SIC Chairman Sahibzada Hamid Raza, and Majlis Wahadat-i-Muslimeen (MWM) Secretary General Allama Raja Nasir Abbas were present.

Barrister Gohar emphasized the formal nature of the agreement between PTI and SIC, highlighting the submission of affidavits by the candidates and the subsequent announcement of their integration into the Sunni Ittehad Council. He elaborated on the rationale behind this move, citing the necessity to safeguard the reserved seats in the National Assembly and across the country, which are exclusively allocated to political parties. Gohar stressed that the alliance aims to consolidate the party's position and ensure adequate representation in parliamentary proceedings.

According to Gohar, the decision to join forces with SIC is rooted in the imperative of protecting and maximizing PTI's parliamentary strength. He underscored the importance of unity in the political landscape, particularly in light of the reserved seats, which hold significant sway in legislative affairs. Gohar asserted that PTI-backed candidates contesting as independents during the elections received substantial support from the party, contributing to their victories across various provinces.

Echoing Gohar's sentiments, Omar Ayub Khan reiterated the commitment to national unity and emphasized the strategic significance of collaborating with SIC. He highlighted the potential for this alliance to bolster PTI's representation in the National Assembly, thus enhancing its capacity to govern effectively. Ayub underscored the party's demand for the recognition of its supported candidates as "returned candidates" in the wake of rigging allegations and electoral irregularities reported in several constituencies.

Ayub also addressed allegations of electoral malpractice, particularly in Karachi, Hyderabad, and Peshawar, reaffirming PTI's stance on the matter. He vowed to pursue justice and uphold the integrity of the electoral process, emphasizing the party's determination to secure its mandate and ensure fair representation for its constituents.

Furthermore, Ayub expressed gratitude towards MWM for their unwavering support to PTI, acknowledging their invaluable contribution to the party's cause. He emphasized the significance of collaborative efforts in realizing PTI's vision for Pakistan and reiterated the party's commitment to inclusive governance and national progress.

In a statement, Hafiz Hamid Raza of SIC underscored the longstanding alliance between SIC and PTI, dating back nearly eight years. He clarified that the decision to form an alliance with PTI was made with the approval of PTI leadership, including Imran Khan. Raza emphasized SIC and MWM's stance against sectarian violence and militancy, highlighting their commitment to promoting peace and harmony in the country.

Raza reiterated SIC's unconditional support for PTI and affirmed that the policy direction would be determined by PTI and its leadership, emphasizing the collaborative nature of the alliance. He underscored the importance of transparent communication and mutual respect in fostering a strong and effective partnership between the two parties.

Overall, the alliance between PTI and SIC marks a significant development in Pakistan's political landscape, with the potential to shape future governance and legislative agendas. As both parties move forward, their collaborative efforts are expected to contribute to national stability, progress, and inclusive development.