ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) pushed back final demands submission, seeking more time with final words with jailed chairman Imran Khan.
The political party requested additional time from government to consult with incarcerated party on final negotiation agenda, ahead of the third round of talks scheduled for next week. This request was made during second round of in-camera negotiations, which took place on January 2, under the leadership of National Assembly (NA) Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq.
The fresh talks aimed at defusing ongoing political tensions between government and PTI, started with first round of discussions on December 23. The session on January 2 saw key figures from both sides participating, with the opposition represented by PTI members, including Leader of the Opposition Omar Ayub, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, and PTI MNA Asad Qaiser, along with other political leaders.
During the meeting, it was initially agreed that Khan’s party would present its demands, but party requested further time for consultations with Imran Khan. PTI emphasized that final list of demands would be presented in writing during the next meeting. NA Speaker Sadiq expressed hope that the third round of negotiations would take place next week, and he praised the positive atmosphere during the discussions, particularly highlighting the constructive contributions from CM Gandapur.
In a joint statement, Senator Siddiqui said opposition raised several demands, including release of Imran Khan and other PTI leaders and supporters, along with the formation of a judicial commission to probe the events of May 9, 2023, and November 26, 2024.
PTI’s main focus for the negotiations includes the release of under-trial political prisoners and the establishment of a judicial commission to investigate significant political events. Speaking to reporters before the meeting, Ayub reaffirmed the party’s clear agenda and its commitment to the talks, emphasizing the importance of finding solutions through dialogue.
Key leaders remained optimistic about ongoing discussions, saying that they could lead to a resolution of political issues and improve the overall situation in Pakistan.
