PTI Workers to Follow Imran Khan's Lead Amid Internal Strife

On November 16, 2024, Sher Afzal Marwat, a prominent leader of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), made a significant statement regarding the party's upcoming protest plans. He emphasized that PTI workers would only respond to the call of their founder, Imran Khan, and not to any directives from his wife, Bushra Bibi, or his sisters. This declaration highlights the internal dynamics within the party as it navigates a challenging political landscape.

Marwat shared his thoughts during an appearance on Geo News’ program "Aaj Shahzeb Khanzada Kay Sath." He expressed his eagerness to participate in the planned protest in Islamabad but lamented his exclusion from a recent meeting in Peshawar, where discussions about him reportedly took place. His comments come in the wake of Imran Khan's sister, Aleema Khan, and lawyer, Faisal Chaudhry, announcing a protest scheduled for November 24 in Islamabad. However, this call for action has raised concerns among several PTI leaders, who fear that it may lead to negative consequences for the party.

The PTI has been embroiled in a political struggle with the current ruling coalition, which it accuses of coming to power through fraudulent means. Over the past few months, the party has organized multiple protests in the federal capital. In September, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Khan and several lawmakers were arrested for allegedly violating the Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Bill, 2024 during a public rally. The situation escalated further in October when PTI workers marched to Islamabad, prompting police raids on the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) House, especially after KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur went "incommunicado."

Marwat pointed out that Imran Khan has consistently maintained that dynastic politics is detrimental to democracy. He also raised concerns about the organizational challenges facing the party in preparation for the upcoming protest, stating, "If a protest strategy is not finalized within two days, it might be difficult for us to stage a full-scale sit-in." He expressed confidence that people from KP would attend the protest but questioned how they would maintain their position at D-Chowk, a key location in Islamabad.

Marwat's apprehensions are echoed by PTI sources, who have indicated that many senior leaders, including those who were part of the parliament or the KP government, do not support Imran Khan's call for a large-scale protest. They warn that such actions could exacerbate the party's existing problems. There are concerns that the government may not permit the protest and could respond with force, as seen in previous instances, leading to more arrests and legal challenges for party members.

Adding to the controversy, reports surfaced suggesting that Bushra Bibi had entered the political arena, issuing instructions to party leaders and calling for meetings. However, these claims were firmly denied by PTI's lawyer, Chaudhry, who stated, "She [Bushra] is neither joining politics nor will she in the future." This denial underscores the ongoing speculation and scrutiny surrounding the PTI and its leadership.

As the political climate in Pakistan continues to evolve, the PTI faces a critical juncture. The party's ability to mobilize its supporters and effectively strategize for upcoming protests will be crucial in determining its future. With internal divisions and external pressures mounting, the coming days will be pivotal for the PTI as it seeks to navigate the turbulent waters of Pakistani politics.