PTI’s Sher Afzal Marwat Demands Audit of Lawyers' Fees Amid Growing Internal Tensions

 ISLAMABAD – Sher Afzal Marwat, a prominent leader of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has called for a thorough audit of the legal fees paid to lawyers handling the party’s various cases. His request comes in light of rising internal conflicts and the growing involvement of Bushra Bibi, the wife of imprisoned PTI founder Imran Khan, in the party’s legal and organizational affairs.

In an interview with Geo News, Marwat voiced his concerns about the allegedly excessive payments made to certain lawyers representing PTI. He disclosed that “three or four lawyers” had received substantial fees, which he believes were far too high for the services provided.

“These cases were unfounded and did not necessitate significant legal expertise. The fees charged were unreasonably inflated,” Marwat stated. He also highlighted his own efforts, noting that he has represented Imran Khan in 74 cases without accepting any payment.

Bushra Bibi Tightens Grip Over PTI’s Legal Team

In a related development, sources have indicated that Bushra Bibi, in her expanding role within the party, has made changes to PTI's legal teams and the Insaf Lawyers Forum (ILF). She has reportedly requested a comprehensive list of lawyers affiliated with PTI across the country through Advocate Qazi Anwar.

Insiders suggest that Bushra Bibi has directed Anwar and Mashal Yousafzai to report directly to her regarding legal issues. Furthermore, she has prohibited party lawyers from sending messages to Imran Khan, who has been imprisoned since August 2024 following his conviction in the Toshakhana case.

Bushra has also allegedly mediated internal disputes among PTI’s legal teams and finalized adjustments in the ILF’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa chapter after consulting with the jailed party founder.

However, Advocate Qazi Anwar refuted these claims in a statement to Geo News, asserting, “I am not aware of such instructions, and Bushra Bibi has not reached out to me concerning these matters.”

Growing Frustrations Within PTI

This recent development occurs amid rising dissatisfaction among PTI leaders regarding the growing involvement of Bushra Bibi and Aleema Khan in party matters. Several senior members, who wished to remain anonymous, voiced their concerns about the duo’s purported “rude behavior” and “interference.” A notable clash between Aleema Khan and PTI legal heads Barrister Gohar Ali Khan and Salman Akram Raja at Adiala Jail highlighted the escalating tensions. When asked for a comment, PTI Secretary General Salman Akram Raja chose not to respond.

Marwat’s Criticism Adds Fuel to the Fire

Sher Afzal Marwat’s demand for a fee audit has further revealed fractures within the party. He questioned the need for hiring high-profile lawyers for what he termed "low-profile" cases, arguing that the party's financial resources should be managed with greater responsibility. “A transparent audit will ensure fairness and restore trust in the system,” Marwat stated, suggesting that mismanagement of party funds could drive away PTI’s core supporters.

Challenges Ahead

PTI, already grappling with internal divisions and the imprisonment of its founder, faces mounting challenges as it seeks to rebuild its organizational framework. With Bushra Bibi taking on more authority and figures like Marwat calling for transparency, the party’s leadership must carefully balance addressing grievances while working to restore unity. As PTI prepares for a politically intense year ahead, its internal conflicts risk overshadowing its broader strategy, raising concerns about its capacity to maintain cohesion amid increasing pressures.