Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Shafqat Mahmood announced on Sunday that he is retiring from politics after a long and distinguished career. Mahmood, a former federal minister, made the announcement on X (formerly Twitter), clarifying that his decision was voluntary and not influenced by external pressures.
“Thirty-four years ago, I resigned from a government job and entered politics. After much deliberation, I have now decided to retire from politics,” Mahmood stated.
In recent months, numerous politicians have left PTI or quit politics following the May 9 attacks on state installations. The party claims these resignations were coerced. Notable departures include Fawad Chaudhry, Asad Umar, Shireen Mazari, Fayazul Hassan Chohan, Maleeka Bokhari, Ali Zaidi, and Musarrat Jamshed Cheema.
Despite some former members attempting to rejoin, PTI’s current leadership, comprising several new faces, has decided not to reintegrate those who left.
Mahmood emphasized, “There’s no pressure on me [to quit PTI], and I do not plan on joining any other political party.” He attributed his decision to “time” and “age.”
Reflecting on his career, Mahmood noted he has experienced numerous highs and lows, serving as a member of both the Senate and the National Assembly. He held positions as both federal and provincial minister and even spent time in jail during his political journey.
As the federal education minister, Mahmood introduced the Single National Curriculum and managed education-related affairs during the COVID-19 pandemic. His tenure during the pandemic was particularly noted for the relaxations he introduced for students, including passing them without exams.
Expressing his gratitude, Mahmood thanked Imran Khan and PTI for the opportunity to serve, as well as the voters of his constituency who elected him to parliament twice. “I am satisfied that I have always performed all my responsibilities honestly and performed at every position as a duty. No one, thank God, has levelled any allegation against me,” he said.
Looking ahead, Mahmood revealed his plans to spend the rest of his life teaching and writing. He encouraged the youth to engage in politics, underscoring the importance of their participation.
Mahmood’s retirement marks the end of an era for PTI and Pakistani politics, as he leaves behind a legacy of dedication and service.
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