ISLAMABAD: In response to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) recent announcement of another protest movement against the current government, officials have sharply criticised the party for prioritising dialogues with the military establishment over political leaders.
Rana Sanaullah, the adviser on Political and Public Affaires to the Prime Minister, expressed these views during media talk, stating “ their media statement clearly indicates they aim to destabilise and weaken the stability Pakistan has achieved after the Mark-e-Haq clashes and the government’s economic recovery efforts”
The comment came after Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur’s recent statement, where he described PTI’s new movement as a “do or die” initiative, set to reach its peak by August 5. The protest is largely centered around demanding the release of PTI founder Imran Khan, who will mark two year to jail recovery efforts.”
This comment comes after Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur’s recent statement, where he described PTI’s new movement as a “do or die” initiative, set to reach its peak by August 5. The protest is largely centered around demanding the release of PTI founder Imran Khan, who will mark two years in jail on that date.
During a media interaction yesterday, Gandapur, who has previously led several marches on Islamabad, said Khan was willing to negotiate but only with “decision makers.” Gandapur added, “Negotiate within 90 days and resolve the ongoing issues.”
Sanaullah, however, remains skeptical about PTI’s protest plans, calling them a mere attempt to destabilize the country. “If their protests are peaceful, that’s their democratic right. But if they resort to lawlessness and attempt to destabilize the country—which has been their goal from the start—the law will act accordingly,” he warned.
Echoing earlier comments, Sanaullah noted that as long as PTI protests remain peaceful, they will be tolerated. “Local administrations will grant permission for rallies if they believe the protests will be peaceful,” he said, referencing Gandapur’s plans for a rally in Lahore.Regarding negotiations, Sanaullah questioned PTI’s sincerity, noting, “If they want dialogue, why are they continuing with protests and marches? What’s the point of a 90-day protest movement and the planned march to Lahore?”
Addressing PTI’s demands, Sanaullah clarified that the government cannot offer relief on issues like Imran Khan’s release, as the party itself has rejected any negotiations about the ex-prime minister’s case, insisting Khan wants a court acquittal based on merit. He further accused PTI of mostly seeking to leverage the establishment rather than engaging with political parties. “They are not interested in political dialogue; they are still seeking help from the establishment to return to power,” Sanaullah said.
When asked what the government’s position on talks was, Sanaullah stated, “Our primary focus is Pakistan’s economic revival. We are open to discussions with PTI and other political forces to ensure stability and progress.” He emphasized the importance of a collective approach, proposing a “charter of economy” to address key issues.
In conclusion, Sanaullah underscored that the government’s only goal is national development and stability, and it is prepared to collaborate with all stakeholders to achieve this goal.
