The Appellate Tribunal of the Peshawar High Court has accepted the nomination papers of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) senior vice president Sher Afzal Marwat for NA-32 Peshawar, reversing the earlier rejection by the Returning Officer. Marwat, a prominent lawyer, had challenged the rejection of his papers through an appeal, alleging unfairness in the process. His victory marks a potential hurdle for PTI's central leadership in determining their final candidate for the crucial Peshawar constituency. Speaking to the media after the ruling, Marwat voiced his reservations about the party's ticket distribution practices, particularly comparing the lawyer selection process in Punjab with the perceived irregularities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He announced plans to meet PTI founder Imran Khan to discuss the "issue of KP tickets." Despite the acceptance of his papers, Marwat clarified that his concerns stemmed from "the central organization," and not the provincial leadership.

He asserted that his outspoken nature and public reception might create friction with the central committee, specifically mentioning Arbab Sher Ali, whom he described as a constant opponent. However, Marwat emphasized that he harbored no personal animosity towards any party officials. He confirmed apologizing to PTI vice-president Atif Khan over a leaked audio clip that caused internal controversy. "There is no disagreement with Atif Khan," he clarified, acknowledging the inappropriate sharing of the recording but stopping short of a formal apology. Marwat's acceptance into the race adds a critical dimension to the upcoming NA-32 contest. His vocal criticism of the ticket distribution process and perceived tensions with central leadership raise questions about internal disagreements within PTI. With the general elections just months away, this development adds intrigue to the already heated political landscape in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)