ISLAMABAD – The swearing-in ceremony of Imran Khan as the Prime Minister of Pakistan garnered scores of guests, even from across the border, however, one of the close confidantes of the 22nd premier was missing.
Sheikh Rasheed Ahmed, the chief of Awami Muslim League, who had supported Imran Khan for years was not seen in the oath-taking ceremony that took place at Aiwan-e-Sadar in Islamabad on Saturday.
The Pindiite also seemed perturbed during the boisterous session of the National Assembly on Friday and did not throw weight behind Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf when its lawmakers were confronting their fellows from Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz.
According to media reports, Sheikh Rasheed was desirous of a crucial ministry, however, he was not confirmed to the post, creating a rift between him and Imran Khan.
Interestingly, Awn Chaudry, the Political Secretary to the Chairman PTI, also missed the event, to the surprise of political commentators and central leaders of the party.
Chaudry accompanies Imran Khan whenever he is on a tour, however, his eerie absence raised the eyebrows of many, wondering whether Khan has distanced himself from his longtime fellows or this is a mere coincidence.
