Sher Afzal Khan Marwat has triggered fresh political debate after filing a petition in the Federal Constitutional Court seeking the restoration of Ali Amin Gandapur as chief minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The move has fueled speculation about growing differences within Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf and raised questions about whether a new faction is quietly emerging inside the party.
Sher Afzal Marwat, who still serves as an MNA despite being expelled from PTI over disciplinary issues, challenged Gandapur’s resignation and called it unconstitutional. In the petition, he argued that Gandapur stepped down under pressure and claimed the resignation had no legal standing.
Without directly naming jailed PTI founder Imran Khan, Marwat stated that Gandapur was allegedly forced to resign on the instructions of a “convicted and disqualified individual.” The statement immediately intensified political tensions and created the impression of open disagreement with the party’s top leadership.
Political observers now see Sher Afzal Marwat’s latest move as more than just a legal petition. Many within political circles are questioning whether the case was filed with Gandapur’s silent approval or whether it reflects a deeper internal rebellion inside PTI.
The controversy began after Gandapur stepped down from the KP chief minister’s office in line with party instructions. PTI leadership later backed Sohail Afridi for the position. However, Marwat’s petition challenged not only Gandapur’s resignation but also the notification appointing Afridi as chief minister.
Marwat requested the court to restore Gandapur to office and cancel all decisions taken after what he called unconstitutional actions. His petition has added fresh uncertainty to the already tense political environment within PTI.
Soon after the petition surfaced, Gandapur distanced himself from the case. He publicly stated that he had no connection with any legal proceedings and said he had simply followed party directions by resigning from the chief minister’s office.
PTI Chairman Gohar Ali Khan also reacted strongly and described the petition as part of a conspiracy against the party. He maintained that only the PTI chairman has the authority to decide who becomes chief minister and insisted that the decision regarding Afridi cannot be reversed.
Even after these statements, Sher Afzal Marwat remains at the center of political discussion. His legal challenge has strengthened talk of internal divisions, possible dissatisfaction among party members, and the emergence of different power groups within PTI ahead of future political developments.