ISLAMABAD: The disgruntled PML-N leader Zafar Ali Shah will join Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) in presence of the party chairman Imran Khan on Thursday.

Mr Shah’s relations with the party leadership turned sour during the local bodies’ election held in November 2015 in Islamabad as Mr Shah wanted to become mayor of Islamabad and contested election from a Union Council.

But some of the PML-N leaders supported an independent candidate, who won the election and then joined PML-N.

Former Senator Mr Shah while talking to Dawn said the Supreme Court verdict in July 2017, which disqualified former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, proved that he (Mr Nawaz) was not honest and sagacious.

“After that a bogus election was held in which Shehbaz Sharif was declared party head. As a result of what he said undemocratic policies, the leadership lost its grip over the party.

“I am a politician and have to do politics. My friends suggested me to join PTI and I agreed,” he said.

“Though I am contesting from NA-53, I have decided to withdraw in favour of Imran Khan and will play my role to get maximum votes for him,” he said.

While replying to a question, Mr Shah said that the PTI chairman Imran Khan will visit his residence on Thursday (today) and in his presence he would formally announce his decision to join PTI.

Published in Dawn, July 5th, 2018