Islamabad (Web Desk): The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on Thursday sought additional time from the government to consult with its founder, Imran Khan, before finalizing a list of demands, as the third round of negotiations between the two sides was approaching next week.
The talks are being chaired by National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, who is facilitating discussions between the government and PTI, both of which are currently embroiled in political turmoil following PTI's removal from power.
Representing PTI in these discussions are senior party members, including Omar Ayub, who serves as the leader of the opposition in the National Assembly, along with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, former National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser, the party's secretary-general Salman Akram Raja, and Sahibzada Hamid Raza, leader of the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC).
The government's team comprised Prime Minister’s Adviser Rana Sanaullah, Senator Irfan Siddiqui, and Pakistan Peoples Party’s (PPP) leaders Raja Pervaiz Ashraf and Naveed Qamar.
Following the latest round of talks, Sadiq mentioned that while PTI had been expected to present its demands at this meeting, the opposition party requested more time to consult with Imran Khan on a “finalized list” of demands.
He expressed optimism, stating that they hoped to have the third round of discussions next week.
The NA speaker described the atmosphere of the talks as "even more cordial than before," noting that CM Gandapur’s contributions were particularly valuable, with his suggestions being seen as thoughtful and sincere.
Ayaz Sadiq emphasized that the most positive aspect of the discussions was the collective decision to engage in dialogue for the betterment of Pakistan, focusing on critical issues such as the economy, terrorism, and national unity.
Senator Irfan Siddiqui, who represents the government side, read out a joint statement highlighting PTI’s demand for the release of Imran Khan and other PTI leaders and supporters, as well as the establishment of a judicial commission to investigate events on May 9, 2023, and November 26, 2024.
Additionally, PTI requested permission to meet with Imran Khan in Adiala Jail to finalize the party's demands, confirming that Khan had authorized the start of negotiations but required his guidance for their continuation.
Siddiqui noted that Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar had informed the opposition that the government had no issue with the PTI’s request to meet Imran.
Before the talks, Omar Ayub outlined the PTI’s primary goals, including the release of political detainees and the formation of a judicial commission to investigate key political incidents.
He emphasized the necessity of the dialogue, stating that while the PTI remained firm in its stance, negotiations were vital to understanding the government's intentions and the potential for finding a resolution.
Ayub's remarks underscored the necessity of political dialogue, emphasizing that the PTI’s participation was based on political pragmatism rather than an ideological shift. “We are politicians, not soldiers,” he said, indicating that despite political differences, engaging in discussions was essential.
Meanwhile, Ayaz Sadiq, earlier in the day, stated that he was present to facilitate the talks and noted positive feedback from both the opposition and the government. He expressed hope that today's meeting would lay the groundwork for finding solutions to ongoing issues.
The negotiations, which commenced on December 23, are seen as an important step toward addressing Pakistan’s deepening political tensions. Both sides are facing immense pressure to find common ground and avoid further unrest, and these talks are seen as an essential vehicle for potentially stabilizing the political situation in the country.
As discussions continue, all eyes will be on the outcome of the third round of talks next week, where the PTI is expected to present a detailed charter of demands, potentially setting the stage for a breakthrough or highlighting the extent of the divisions that remain.
