Talks Between Pakistan Government and PTI Face Challenges

In Islamabad, discussions between the Pakistan government and the opposition party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), are facing difficulties. PTI is urging the inclusion of key decision-makers to ensure clarity and avoid future disagreements. PTI leader Asad Qaiser emphasized the need for these stakeholders to join the talks, suggesting that the current government lacks autonomy in major decisions.

PTI's Demands and Concerns

PTI has given the government time to consider their demand for involving influential figures. They have also warned that their negotiating committee will dissolve if they do not get "uninterrupted access" to PTI's founding chairman, Imran Khan, who is currently detained. PTI insists that only Imran Khan can make the final decision on any agreement.

Government's Response

The government has expressed concerns over PTI's reluctance to submit a written charter of demands, which was promised during the initial meeting on December 23. Senator Irfan Siddiqui, a government spokesperson, noted that the absence of written demands could hinder progress. PTI's demands include the release of Imran Khan and other members, the establishment of judicial commissions, and locating 45 missing persons.

Involvement of Key Leaders

Asad Qaiser questioned the government's ability to negotiate without consulting leaders like Nawaz Sharif, Shehbaz Sharif, and Asif Ali Zardari. He emphasized that talks would fail if Imran Khan decided against an agreement. PPP leader Raja Pervaiz Ashraf stated that the government committee is open to discussions involving the establishment, acknowledging that some PTI demands relate to the May 9 events.

Siddiqui addressed PTI's demands regarding political prisoners, stating that the designation depends on the nature of the crime. He warned that the lack of concrete demands from PTI could complicate negotiations further.