Government-PTI Negotiations Hit a Deadlock as PTI Refuses to Participate
The fourth round of negotiations between the government and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), scheduled for January 28, remains uncertain after PTI declined to participate, citing unmet demands and lack of progress on key issues.
PTI Refuses to Attend Talks
Despite an invitation extended by National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, the PTI announced its decision to boycott the meeting. According to PTI leaders, the government has failed to fulfill their primary demand of forming a judicial commission to investigate the incidents of May 9, 2023, and November 26, 2024.
Read More: The government urges PTI to reconsider its decision to halt negotiations
PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar expressed frustration over the lack of action from the government, stating, “We will not participate in a photo session for mere greetings. This is a serious matter, and no steps have been taken to address our demands within the agreed seven-day timeframe.”
He further emphasized that negotiations have effectively ended for PTI, adding, “The government has shown no intention of resolving critical issues. They neither announced anything nor took any steps to meet our demands.”
During the third round of talks on January 16, PTI had submitted a charter of demands, with a key focus on establishing an independent judicial commission to probe the controversial incidents.
Government’s Reaction
The government negotiating committee, led by Senator Irfan Siddiqui, expressed disappointment over PTI’s decision.
“They are violating the agreed timeline of seven days, which ends today. We have fulfilled our part of the agreement, and it is now up to them to decide if they wish to cooperate,” Siddiqui remarked.
He warned that if PTI does not attend the meeting, the government will consider the matter closed. “We will submit a written response to the NA speaker and move forward. We will not call or plead with anyone,” Siddiqui stated.
Background of the Negotiations
The talks between the government and PTI began in December following an initiative by NA Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, who called for cooperation.
- The first round was held on December 23, followed by the second on January 2.
- During the third meeting on January 16, PTI presented its demands, including the formation of a judicial commission.
However, the government’s failure to address these demands has led to a breakdown in the dialogue process, jeopardizing any prospects of resolution.
Implications
The deadlock highlights deep mistrust and lack of consensus between the government and the opposition. PTI’s withdrawal from the talks signals escalating tensions and raises questions about the future of political reconciliation in the country.
