Islamabad – In a clear and unequivocal statement, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Secretary General Salman Akram Raja has confirmed that senior politician Sher Afzal Marwat is not a member of the party. His remarks come amidst ongoing speculation and mixed signals within PTI ranks regarding Marwat’s potential return to the fold.

Earlier, media reports citing party insiders suggested that Sher Afzal Marwat’s comeback had been a topic of informal discussion during a recent PTI parliamentary party meeting. According to these sources, several members felt that Marwat’s stance should be heard in detail before making any final decision about his political status within the party.

During the meeting, prominent PTI leaders such as Asad Qaiser and Shehryar Afridi reportedly spoke in favor of allowing Marwat to present his case and explained why they believed his return could be beneficial. Another party member, Nisar Jutt, openly supported this position, emphasizing that inclusivity and reconciliation should guide PTI’s internal decision-making at a time when the party is already facing political and organizational challenges.

For his part, Sher Afzal Marwat has stated that he only responds to public or internal remarks about him when they originate from within the party’s own ranks. He insisted that he does not initiate controversies but feels compelled to defend himself when statements are made that could damage his political reputation.

However, it was also revealed that the PTI parliamentary party formally requested Marwat to refrain from issuing public responses or engaging in further verbal sparring for the time being. The reason, according to party insiders, was to avoid unnecessary escalation and to ensure that any grievances or policy disagreements could be addressed through formal channels.

Reliable sources indicate that the parliamentary party has decided to present its collective viewpoint on Marwat’s matter directly to PTI founder and former Prime Minister Imran Khan. This step suggests that the ultimate decision on his status will rest with the party’s top leadership, although Salman Akram Raja’s remarks now make it clear where the current official position stands.

Speaking to the media, Salman Akram Raja removed all ambiguity by stating bluntly that “Sher Afzal Marwat is not part of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf.” His statement appears to be aimed at ending speculation, sending a strong message both to party members and to the public that PTI’s leadership has not yet authorized any formal return for Marwat.

Political analysts note that this episode highlights ongoing rifts and internal tensions within PTI, as the party navigates a challenging political environment, court cases against its leaders, and an evolving strategy for its future direction. Sher Afzal Marwat, known for his outspoken nature and combative political style, has been a polarizing figure—admired by some for his boldness but criticized by others for what they see as unnecessary confrontations.

For now, Salman Akram Raja’s categorical statement puts an official pause on any talk of Marwat’s reintegration into PTI. Yet, with the matter set to be placed before Imran Khan, the possibility of future developments cannot be entirely ruled out. Until then, PTI appears determined to maintain internal discipline and control over the narrative surrounding its membership and political alliances.