PTI leadership is currently embroiled in a controversy over the revocation of Sher Afzal Marwat’s fundamental party membership. The issue has highlighted divisions within the party’s top ranks.
Membership Cancellation Notification
A notification issued by PTI Additional Secretary General Firdous Shamim Naqvi announced the cancellation of Marwat’s basic membership, citing a “gross violation/ breach” of party discipline. The notification stated:
- Violations: Marwat had been warned to limit his statements and conduct within party guidelines.
- Committee Findings: A committee was set up to monitor Marwat’s public statements, media appearances, and tweets. The committee concluded that Marwat repeatedly disregarded party rules and regulations, negatively impacting the party’s image and narrative.
- Action: Based on the committee’s findings and recent complaints, the termination of Marwat’s membership was approved by PTI founding chairman Imran Khan.
- Resignation Suggestion: The notification also suggested that if Marwat was an honorable person, he should resign from his National Assembly seat, which he won as a PTI candidate, and seek re-election.
Internal Dispute
However, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Khan contested the authenticity of the notification, labeling it as fake and stating that the cancellation was not possible. This dispute highlights the ongoing internal disagreements within the party’s leadership regarding Marwat’s membership status.
Previous Warnings and Controversies
Marwat had previously received a show-cause notice on May 11 for violating the party’s code of conduct and policy. His blunt and controversial remarks, including a claim that Saudi Arabia was involved in the toppling of the Imran Khan-led government in 2022, have kept him in the limelight and caused friction within the party.
Official Reactions
- Distancing Statements: The PTI leadership distanced itself from Marwat’s controversial statement about Saudi Arabia, issuing a show-cause notice for harming the party’s reputation and interests.
- Expulsion from Committees: On May 9, PTI Secretary General Omar Ayub Khan announced Marwat’s expulsion from the party’s core and political committees, following repeated warnings against violating party policies.
The current situation underscores the PTI’s internal challenges as it deals with members who diverge from the party’s stated positions and conduct guidelines.
To Keep Updated Visit & Follow our Facebook Page Or Our Website