Former senator Mushtaq Ahmad Khan has confirmed that he has officially resigned from Jamaat-e-Islami (JI).
Speaking on Geo News’ Capital Talk, he told host Hamid Mir that he submitted his resignation on September 19 while aboard the Global Samoud Flotilla, though he has yet to receive any response from the party.
Explaining his decision, Mushtaq said that every organisation has its limits, and he now wishes to work independently for human rights, democracy, media freedom, the release of Dr. Aafia Siddiqui, and the constitutional rights of Pakistan’s federating units.
He added that he also aims to meet political figures such as Ali Wazir, Mahrang Baloch, and Manzoor Pashteen, and called for a fair trial for Imran Khan. Mushtaq emotionally shared that he wept the night he resigned, comparing the feeling to losing his mother.
His resignation has sparked criticism of Jamaat-e-Islami, with many accusing the party of abandoning him during his mission to support Palestinians. Critics labelled JI’s silence as “mysterious” and “hypocritical,” saying it failed to stand by Mushtaq when he was detained by Israel.
Mushtaq returned to Pakistan this week after being released from Israeli custody. He was warmly welcomed at Islamabad Airport, where Palestinian flags were waved in solidarity.
The former senator had led Pakistan’s delegation in the 45-boat Global Steadfastness Flotilla, which set sail from Spain carrying aid for Gaza before being intercepted by Israeli forces near the coast.
To read the details of his arrest 4 days back, Must Check out Ex-Senator Mushtaq Ahmed Arrested as Israel Stops Gaza Sumud Flotilla
