In a recent development, the Peshawar High Court has extended interim pre-arrest bail for Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) MNA Sher Afzal Khan Marwat. This extension halts the police from arresting him in 11 criminal cases filed against him across various parts of the province. The bench, comprising Justice Syed Arshad Ali and Justice Naeem Anwar, has additionally demanded the provincial government’s response to Marwat’s petitions seeking the quashing of these cases.
The cases stem from Marwat’s participation in and addressing of party workers’ conventions, alleged to have breached standard operating procedures outlined by the home department. Marwat argues that the cases were registered amidst a period of targeting and victimization of PTI leaders by the government. He asserts that holding and addressing peaceful conventions is his legal and constitutional right, not a criminal offense.
Marwat claims that these actions are part of a broader pattern of victimization against the PTI, despite directives from the High Court to provide a level playing field to all political parties. He condemns the recent attack on PTI spokesperson Rauf Hassan in Islamabad, interpreting it as a message and threat to party leaders who openly challenge the establishment and rival parties.
Regarding his relations within the party, Marwat denies involvement in any political groups or conspiracies, affirming his allegiance to PTI leader Imran Khan. However, he expresses frustration over ongoing challenges, citing the de-notification of his brother as special assistant to the KP chief minister and a subsequent show-cause notice issued to him as undermining actions.
The next hearing, yet to be scheduled, awaits the government’s response to Marwat’s plea for the dismissal of FIRs against him, amidst his staunch defense of his party and principles.
