Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Sher Afzal Marwat has voiced concerns about the party’s protest plans, emphasizing the lack of preparation and clear messaging. Speaking on Geo News’ program hosted by Shahzeb Khanzada, he highlighted internal challenges and questioned the role of Bushra Bibi and PTI founder’s sisters in political mobilization.
Leadership Decisions Under Scrutiny
Marwat expressed dissatisfaction with the involvement of non-political figures, such as Bushra Bibi and the founder’s sisters, in influencing PTI’s political strategy. He described their participation as detrimental to the party’s objectives, stating:
The involvement of such figures is poison for the party’s ideology.
He emphasized that PTI workers would not respond to calls for action from anyone outside the party’s leadership.
Concerns Over Protest Preparedness
Despite his willingness to play an active role, Marwat revealed he was not invited to recent strategic meetings. He pointed out the absence of a concrete protest plan, warning that without swift action, PTI might fail to organize a full-scale demonstration.
If the protest plan and committee are not finalized within two days, it may not be possible to hold a meaningful dharna,” he cautioned.
Marwat also noted that communication with workers had been inadequate, with no motivational messaging to galvanize public support.
Mobilizing Workers: A Growing Challenge
During the interview, Marwat expressed doubts about the party’s ability to mobilize supporters effectively. He stated that while some participants from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) are expected to join, the absence of a well-structured narrative and logistical clarity could hinder turnout.
He further criticized the strategy of relying on directives from non-political figures to inspire workers, asserting that PTI’s ideological base demands leadership-driven motivation.
Dismissals for Non-Performance
Marwat also addressed a directive reportedly issued by Bushra Bibi to remove assembly members who fail to mobilize their constituencies for the protest. He highlighted the difficulty of distributing protest materials and ensuring cohesive participation under current conditions.
PTI workers will respond only to the party’s call, not at the behest of anyone else,” he asserted.
D-Chowk Protest in Question
A key focus of PTI’s protest plan is reaching D-Chowk in Islamabad, a symbolic venue for demonstrations. However, Marwat questioned whether the party had done enough to ensure a strong presence there. He noted that logistical issues and a lack of public messaging could undermine the effort.
So far, no motivational message has been shared with the public to rally support for this protest,” he said.
A Call for Unity and Action
Marwat’s concerns underscore the pressing need for PTI to address internal divisions and present a unified front. To succeed, the party must develop a comprehensive strategy, strengthen communication with workers, and focus on its ideological roots.
The next few days will be critical in determining whether PTI can overcome its challenges and execute a successful demonstration at D-Chowk. Without decisive leadership and effective planning, the protest may fall short of expectations.
