Marwat back in PTI after meeting Imran

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) MNA Sher Afzal Marwat met with party founder Imran Khan on Saturday, resolving their differences as per Khan’s instructions. Khan greeted Marwat with a hug, signaling an end to their dispute.

Marwat, speaking to journalists outside Adiala jail in Rawalpindi, where he met Khan after three months, said, “The party founder has entrusted me with leadership responsibilities for the August 22 rally in front of Barrister Gohar.” He explained that all differences had been settled following Khan’s instructions and assurances.

Marwat said that he had been entrusted with organising a major public gathering on August 22. He noted that PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan has emphasized unity within the party and importance of travelling to Lahore first.

Addressing questions about his removal from the party, Marwat said that only Imran Khan has the authority to expel him. His basic party membership was recently cancelled through a notification, and he was asked to resign as PTI MNA.

However, he insisted on meeting with Imran Khan and stated that he would first consult his constituency and elders before making any decisions about resigning.

In light of internal party disputes, Imran Khan granted Marwat a meeting. Meanwhile, the PTI core committee has recently rejected the resignation of Hammad Azhar as party president of Punjab. Marwat asserted that if any incidents similar to May 9 occur, he would take full responsibility. “I will handle all planning independently from Imran Khan to ensure that no one blames him for the actions.” He promised peaceful protests and called on Imran Khan’s supporters to energise the public.

Marwat also mentioned plans to lead protests involving students, lawyers and farmers, citing frustration with the current environment. He stated that he would prioritise travelling to Lahore and dismissed criticisms regarding his recent trip to London. He made it clear that he would not entertain objections to PTI members Shibli Faraz, Omar Ayub and others.

Marwat had previously received a show-cause notice due to controversial statements damaging the party’s relationship with Saudi Arabia and violating the party discipline. He was expelled from the party after his response to the notice was deemed unsatisfactory, and he continued making statements.