ISLAMABAD: Senior leader from Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) stated that any political breakthrough hinges on confidence-building measures at the highest level.
He emphasized, “If negotiations have reached a stage where the top five figures are involved, it indicates a dead end.” Khan further said that there is no need for such high-level meetings and questioned the logic behind them. He expressed skepticism about the possibility of talks among the top leaders if they are unable to meet with PTI founder Imran Khan himself.”We visit every Tuesday and leave without meeting [Khan],” Khan added.
Since his detention in August 2023, Khan faces multiple legal cases, including charges related to corruption and terrorism, following his removal from office through a no-confidence vote in April 2022.Gohar questioned the purpose of the meetings with Khan, claiming they have been intentionally made contentious. He also noted that no one has met with the former prime minister for over a month.
PTI Secretary General Barrister Salman Akram Raja called on the PML-N-led federal government to clarify its stance on negotiations involving the top five figures of the country.He pointed out that any meaningful dialogue requires Khan’s participation; without him, the efforts would be futile.
Meanwhile, PTI’s Barrister Ali Zafar expressed doubts about the current environment being suitable for negotiations, alleging that cases are being filed against PTI leaders and workers are facing torture. He urged the government to foster a conducive atmosphere for dialogue.
In another development, PML-N Senator Sanaullah warned that PTI and the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government would face consequences if Khan persisted with his confrontational stance against the state. He added that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had extended an offer to negotiate with PTI after consulting with the establishment and Nawaz Sharif.
When asked about potential talks, Sanaullah stated that Khan has historically been hesitant to engage in dialogue. He also clarified that there would be no obstacle to meeting Khan if PTI adhered to the Islamabad High Court’s directives.Defense Minister Khawaja Asif remarked that discussions about negotiations have only been limited to media statements and that no substantial progress has been achieved.
He further said that the government is open to negotiations led by any opposition figure; if Mahmood Khan Achakzai is nominated, the government would accept his leadership in talks.
