Government-PTI Negotiations Reach Deadlock as PTI Refuses to Participate
The fourth round of talks between the government and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) faced a significant setback as PTI declined to attend the meeting called by National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq. The session, planned to address ongoing political disputes, was scheduled at the Parliament House but failed to proceed due to PTI’s absence.
Speaker Ayaz Sadiq had personally contacted Opposition Leader Omar Ayub and PTI leader Asad Qaiser, emphasizing the importance of dialogue in resolving issues. “Negotiations are the only way forward,” the Speaker stressed during his outreach to PTI leadership.
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However, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan rejected the invitation, citing the government’s failure to honor its commitments. “It has been seven days since our demand for a judicial commission was raised, and no progress has been made. This is not just a photo-opportunity issue—it is a serious matter,” he asserted, reiterating PTI’s stance that meaningful steps must precede any further talks.
Government’s Disappointment Over PTI’s Stance
The government’s negotiation committee, represented by spokesperson Irfan Siddiqui, expressed dismay over PTI’s decision. “We are disappointed by their refusal. If they choose not to attend, we will provide a written response to the Speaker. The seven-day timeline they agreed upon concludes tomorrow, and it is their decision to participate or not. We will not beg anyone,” Siddiqui remarked.
Background and Key Demands
The dialogue process began in December when Speaker Ayaz Sadiq extended an invitation to PTI for negotiations. Initial meetings on December 23 and January 2 paved the way for a third session on January 16, during which PTI presented a charter of demands. Key among these demands was the formation of a judicial commission to investigate the incidents of May 9 and November 26.
While the government accuses PTI of deviating from the agreed timeline, PTI argues that the government’s inaction on its demands has rendered the talks ineffective. As both sides remain at odds, the political deadlock shows no signs of easing, leaving the future of negotiations uncertain.
