Member of the National Assembly Sher Afzal Marwat stated that the recent cancellation of a Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) public rally prevented the party from facing embarrassment due to a complete lack of preparations. Speaking outside the Peshawar High Court, he expressed gratitude that the event was called off, emphasizing that no arrangements had been made.
Marwat sharply criticized the provincial government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, accusing it of rampant corruption. He highlighted that Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur had sanctioned Rs1.5 billion for development projects in his constituency but raised serious concerns about irregularities in their implementation.
He further alleged that public health authorities violated regulations by awarding contracts to a preferred individual, which led to judicial intervention. The Peshawar High Court has issued a stay order on the questionable tender, and the case is currently under legal scrutiny.
Addressing the legal challenges he faces, Marwat revealed that despite more than two and a half years passing, police and prosecution have yet to present any evidence against him. He mentioned that multiple FIRs have been filed nationwide but expressed particular dissatisfaction with the provincial government’s handling of his case. While approximately 450 cases were withdrawn after PTI assumed power, his case was notably excluded, suggesting selective treatment.
In a significant development, PTI postponed its planned rally following discussions with the government, which were described as positive. Negotiations took place in the opposition lobby of the National Assembly, where both sides agreed to reduce tensions temporarily. The government requested the postponement, and PTI consented after internal consultations.
The meeting included Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, and Raja Pervaiz Ashraf representing the government, while opposition figures such as Mahmood Khan Achakzai, Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, and Aamir Dogar were present. Insiders noted that the decision to delay the rally aimed to foster a more constructive political atmosphere as dialogue channels between the parties begin to reopen. Although this is not a permanent resolution, it marks a temporary easing of political tensions.
