ISLAMABAD: Former Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) MNA Sher Afzal Marwat has lashed out at the party’s leadership, alleging that unelected members are running PTI affairs and keeping Imran Khan isolated.
His remarks come just days after PTI founder Imran Khan, currently incarcerated, ordered Marwat’s expulsion from the party for repeated violations of party discipline.
Marwat’s Allegations
Speaking on Geo News’ “Aaj Shahzeb Khanzada Kay Sath” on Friday, Marwat particularly criticized Salman Akram Raja, claiming he considers himself the “de facto secretary general” of PTI.
- Marwat insisted that the party’s secretary general should be elected through intra-party elections, as per PTI’s constitution.
- He alleged that Raja was appointed due to influential recommendations rather than party consensus.
- He blamed the current PTI leadership for sidelining the party’s actual cause and prioritizing political positions over core party objectives.
Internal Divisions Within PTI
Marwat’s remarks come amid reports of a growing divide within PTI, particularly between its political and legal factions.
- Sources suggest that PTI lawyers’ group met with Imran Khan in Adiala Jail and filed complaints against key party figures, including Asad Qaiser, Junaid Akbar, KP CM Ali Amin Gandapur, and Marwat himself.
- These complaints reportedly played a role in Marwat’s expulsion from the party.
- The political group within PTI also urged Khan to consult directly with them on political matters instead of relying solely on lawyers for advice.
Marwat Claims Expulsion Was Unjust
When asked about Raja’s statement distancing himself from the decision to expel him, Marwat accused Raja of lying and blamed him and his allies for orchestrating his removal.
- He claimed that he had been expelled three times in a year, questioning the credibility of the decision.
- Despite his expulsion, Marwat asserted he would soon return to PTI, stating he remains loyal to Imran Khan.
- He insisted that Khan was being misled by those around him.
Concerns Over PTI’s Direction
Marwat also voiced concerns over PTI’s current leadership and direction, stating:
- “Party affairs are not going in the right direction […] we have strayed from practical work.”
- He accused some insiders of working against KP CM Ali Amin Gandapur and other loyal party leaders.
- He criticized the distribution of party positions, claiming that those who never faced hardship or police raids were holding top positions.
PTI’s Official Notification on Expulsion
Two days ago, PTI issued an official notification confirming Marwat’s expulsion, following the direct orders of Imran Khan.
Marwat, however, rejected the decision, stating he had been disrespected multiple times and was no longer interested in meeting Khan to discuss the matter.
He maintained that his expulsion was completely unjust, as his loyalty and contributions to PTI during difficult times were ignored.
With tensions rising within PTI, the party faces increasing internal power struggles as it navigates its political and legal challenges.
