The decision to expel MNA Sher Afzal Marwat from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) highlights Imran Khan’s recurring pattern of sidelining any leader who dares to voice any criticism of party policies.
A controversial figure, Marwat rose to prominence in the PTI for his bluntness and violent rhetoric, tackling political opponents head-on. His popularity soared after he staged public rallies while the party was still reeling from mass defections after the May 9, 2023 riots. At one point, he was so central to the PTI that some party supporters claimed his demeanor and language reminded them of Khan.
The very reasons that facilitated his popularity, however, proved his eventual downfall. Marwat’s habit of speaking without considering potential consequences landed the party in hot water when he indicated that Saudi Arabia played a role in Khan’s ouster as prime minister. His recent outbursts against PTI Secretary General Salman Akram Raja undoubtedly also played a role in his ouster.
The key reason for his exile, though, is likely his projection of himself as an heir apparent to Khan. Neither the former prime minister, nor his supporters, have brooked any challengers to his throne. A key example is Jahangir Tareen, once a close confidant and key financier of PTI.
Tareen played a pivotal role in bolstering the party’s financial and political standing, especially in the 2018 general elections that saw the PTI form government. His largesse was awarded with an eviction from the party after he butted heads with Khan. Similar examples exist in Javed Hashmi and former judge Wajihuddin Ahmed, who was himself ousted for daring to question Tareen’s influence.
Politics is inherently cutthroat, particularly in Pakistan, where all major parties rely on the public support for a central figure around whom all others must gather. The PTI, however, is particularly critical of dissent, hampering its claims of inclusivity and democratic deliberation. Under Khan, the party operates less as a democracy and more an autocracy, where all decision-making rests with the party founder. The stamping out of any dissent encourages internal rifts, leaving the party embattled inside and out, where it remains persona non grata with the establishment.
The recent slew of changes to the party leadership and structure shine a light on the PTI’s ongoing difficulties with the establishment. As a former cricket captain, Khan knows better than most that you do not mess with a winning team. When the team is struggling to eke out any gains, however, you must restructure until you find a winning squad.
Marwat’s exit marks the end to another era for the PTI. All eyes now turn to Raja and PTI KP President Junaid Akbar, who must prove they can secure wins for the party. If they, too, fail in their endeavors, they may soon join the long list of discarded loyalists—proof that in the PTI, loyalty is conditional, and no star shines forever under Khan’s shadow.