Challenges in Talks Between PML-N and PTI

Introduction

In Islamabad, Pakistan, ongoing discussions between the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) are facing hurdles. Senator Irfan Siddiqui, a PML-N leader and spokesperson for the government negotiation committee, expressed concerns about the lack of progress in talks with PTI, founded by Imran Khan.

Key Issues

PTI has not submitted its demands in writing, as agreed during a meeting on December 23. This delay has caused uncertainty in the negotiation process. PTI's negotiating team facilitated a meeting with their chairman to build trust, but the 'Charter of Demands' remains unwritten.

Political Prisoners and Other Demands

Siddiqui emphasized that political prisoner status depends on the crime, not the person's identity. PTI has demanded the release of Imran Khan and other prisoners, the establishment of judicial commissions, and the tracing of 45 missing persons. However, PTI has not provided a list of these missing individuals.

Negotiation Status

The government has not made any demands of PTI nor asked them to withdraw their call for civil disobedience. No offers have been made to transfer Imran Khan from Adiala Jail. The second round of talks did not make significant progress, and PTI has set an ultimatum for the talks to conclude by the end of the month.

Future Meetings

The government and PTI plan to meet again next week. PTI has publicly stated two main demands: a judicial commission to investigate past violence and the release of political prisoners. The next round of talks is expected to be more productive.