Introduction
ISLAMABAD: In a retreat from its stance in the past, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Wednesday presented a soft stance of dialogue with the Shehbaz-led government if there was an offer that was "serious" or "implementable". That could be the first indication that formal negotiations between the government and the opposition have actually begun.
Condolence Meeting and Speculations
The development followed after the recent condolence meeting hosted at National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq's residence by him, a PML-N leader, with two PTI leaders Salman Akram Raja and Asad Qaiser in attendance. It was ostensibly a condolence meeting in respect to a sister to Speaker Ayaz Sadiq.
After this visit, the Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to the speaker's house is raising speculations of government interest in initiating talks with the opposition further fortified by PTI Chairman Gohar Ali Khan's open statement of "unconditional" support from both sides.
Call for Unconditional Dialogue
Barrister Gohar emphasized that unconditional dialogue between the government and opposition is needed. "Talks between the government and opposition can take place in days," said Hamid Raza, head of the Sunni Ittehad Council.
"If the government had presented a practical offer, we would have considered it. We are still open to discussing any serious proposals," Raza stated, without elaborating on what constitutes a "serious" offer. He expressed hope that PTI would soon hold a meeting to discuss the possibility of negotiations.
PTI Leaders' Stand
PTI leader Zartaj Gul also confirmed that party chief Imran Khan had authorized the leadership to enter into talks, depending on the offer presented. PTI Secretary General Salman Akram Raja explained that the meeting at Ayaz Sadiq's residence was purely for condolences, but suggested the party might entertain discussions if a substantial offer is extended by the government.
Raja added that the PTI’s five-member negotiation committee, formed under Imran Khan's instructions, would soon convene to deliberate on all possible options.
PML-N's Response
PML-N’s Tariq Fazal Chaudhry expressed confidence that the government would engage in talks with an open mind, advocating for political dialogue across the board. Meanwhile, PML-N’s Rana Sanaullah reiterated that the solution to political disputes lies in dialogue, referencing Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's earlier offers for talks upon taking office.
However, the government’s stance remains firm regarding the May 9 riots, with no intention of offering relief on the cases tied to the incident. Despite this, PTI's previous refusal to engage in talks with the Shehbaz government has softened, opening the door for future discussions.
A Shift in PTI's Approach
Historically, the PTI had insisted on negotiating only with those in "real power," dismissing the government's offers as inconsequential. The opposition had ridiculed the Shehbaz administration’s proposals, calling it the "Form 47 government." Yet, last week, Imran Khan formed a five-member committee tasked with negotiating with "anyone," signaling a possible shift in PTI’s previously hardened stance.
Speculation continues regarding the agenda of these upcoming talks. PTI sources hint at the potential formation of a "national government," including PTI ministers, snap elections by March 2026, and a possible release of Imran Khan if the party moderates its aggressive stance.
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