PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan announced on Wednesday that party founder Imran Khan had authorized the submission of PTI’s demands to the government in writing, as part of ongoing discussions aimed at reducing political tensions.
Since Imran’s arrest last year on multiple charges, relations between PTI, the government, and the establishment have deteriorated, marked by violent protests and state repression. In response, Imran set up a five-member committee to engage in talks with various parties, signaling a shift in PTI lawmakers’ positions in parliament. The government also formed a committee, leading to two rounds of talks—one on December 23 and another on January 2. However, significant progress has yet to be made, with further meetings scheduled, possibly later this week.
After meeting with Imran, PTI leaders held a press conference, demanding an ‘unmonitored’ meeting with their leader. Barrister Gohar explained that PTI would present its two demands in writing, despite the fact that there was no formal requirement to do so, in order to avoid delays in the negotiation process. He confirmed that Imran had granted permission for the written submission.
Addressing concerns that the talks were only for securing a “deal,” Gohar stressed that both Imran and the party had repeatedly dismissed such claims, emphasizing that the discussions were in the national interest with a “limited purpose.”
On remarks from Imran’s sister Aleema Khan about offers made through Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, Gohar downplayed the significance of the matter, stating that PTI had not pursued any offers in their engagements with the government.
In a related development, National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq responded to criticism regarding his role in arranging a meeting with Imran, stating that it was not his responsibility to organize such a meeting. He added that his doors were always open for all parties and expressed willingness to arrange a meeting once the government and opposition reached an agreement.
Rana Sanaullah, Adviser to the Prime Minister, remarked that progress in the negotiations would follow once Speaker Sadiq returned from abroad. He noted that PTI had already met with Imran and was now seeking a formal discussion to present their written demands. He also observed that PTI’s willingness to submit written demands appeared uncertain based on their statements on social media. Regarding the PPP, Sanaullah mentioned ongoing meetings and noted that the PPP leadership had supported every government decision.
