ISLAMABAD: The opposition alliance, Tehreek Tahaffuz-e-Aiyeen Pakistan (TTAP), has agreed to engage in negotiations with the government to break the ongoing political impasse concerning former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s medical treatment, sources disclosed on Thursday.
This decision was made during a consultative meeting held in Islamabad late Wednesday night, attended by key opposition figures including National Assembly Opposition Leader Mahmood Khan Achakzai, Senate Opposition Leader Allama Raja Nasir Abbas, PTI Secretary General Salman Akram Raja, former Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, ex-National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser, TTAP leader Mustafa Nawaz Khokhar, and others.
Participants reviewed recent statements from Prime Minister’s Adviser Rana Sanaullah and collectively agreed to respond constructively to the government’s offer for talks. The sources indicated that a “positive response” has been prepared to initiate negotiations.
Earlier this week, Sanaullah reiterated the government’s openness to dialogue during Senate proceedings, emphasizing that the ruling party had previously offered to negotiate even when the opposition was in power. He highlighted that democracy advances through discussions rather than deadlock, urging opposition parties to actively participate in parliamentary committees and uphold democratic principles.
During the same session, Senate Opposition Leader Raja Nasir Abbas called on the government to improve relations with Imran Khan, who is currently incarcerated. Abbas assured the government that the opposition would not allow its fall, signaling a willingness to cooperate.
The opposition is expected to initiate contacts with key government officials during Ramadan, the sources added.
PTI leader Atif Khan confirmed the consensus among opposition parties, stating that Achakzai and Abbas had been authorized to represent the alliance in negotiations. He expressed hope that the opposition would clearly communicate its stance to the public and emphasized that dialogue is for the nation’s betterment.
Junaid Akbar, a PTI leader from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, underscored the opposition’s commitment to political engagement and reconciliation. “We believe in resolving issues through dialogue, not confrontation,” he said. Akbar stressed that the government should adopt a cooperative attitude to facilitate a conducive environment for talks.
He further noted that meaningful negotiations cannot progress unless the government demonstrates sincerity and creates the right conditions. Akbar urged authorities to foster an environment where dialogue can thrive, asserting that the opposition was ready to take constructive steps if the government shows genuine intent.
This development coincides with growing concerns over Imran Khan’s health; he has been in custody since August 2023 and was recently diagnosed with central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO), a serious eye condition that can significantly impair vision. A report submitted to the Supreme Court earlier this month revealed that Khan has lost approximately 85% of vision in his right eye.
On Tuesday, Imran Khan was taken to Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) for further eye treatment, where he received a second dose of anti-VEGF intravitreal injection. The PTI has demanded that his treatment be carried out at Shifa International Hospital in Islamabad, with his personal physicians present, while the government has accused the party of politicizing his health concerns.
