The government has warned it will disband the negotiation committee if Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) boycotts the upcoming meeting scheduled for January 28. The talks, aimed at defusing escalating political tensions, have reached a critical point, with the PTI demanding the immediate formation of judicial commissions to investigate past protests.
PTI’s Stance Stalls Progress
Senator Irfan Siddiqui, spokesperson for the government’s negotiation committee, called PTI’s position “illogical.” Speaking to Geo News, he emphasized that the government has adhered to its timeline and committed to providing a written response during the next round of talks. Siddiqui criticized PTI’s six-week delay in sharing their demands, contrasting it with the government’s request for seven working days to respond.
The PTI, however, insists it will not attend the fourth round of talks without the establishment of judicial commissions. These commissions would probe the violent protests on May 9, 2023, and the government crackdown on November 26, 2024. PTI claims the government’s delay undermines the negotiation process, further straining relations between the two sides.
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Risk of Talks Breaking Down
Siddiqui expressed uncertainty about PTI’s attendance at the January 28 meeting. “If the talks do not continue, then what will the negotiation committee do?” he questioned, warning that the committee would dissolve if PTI opts to boycott.
Despite the impasse, Siddiqui acknowledged National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq’s efforts to mediate. He also stressed that meaningful dialogue requires seriousness and mutual respect, criticizing PTI for bringing negotiation matters “to the streets.”
PM Advocates for Dialogue
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, following a briefing from Siddiqui, reiterated the importance of negotiations in democracy. He emphasized that dialogue fosters unity and helps devise strategies to address national challenges. The prime minister warned against undemocratic behavior, saying it damages national solidarity and creates unnecessary tensions.
“Pakistan does not need more agitation or confrontation,” he stated. “We need harmony and understanding to rebuild the economy and fight terrorism.” The prime minister further asserted that the government will not allow anyone to derail the country’s progress through disruptive actions.
Future of Negotiations
The government and PTI have held three rounds of talks so far, but the process has reached a standstill. With the government firm on its timeline and PTI steadfast in its demands, the upcoming meeting could determine the future of political negotiations.
While the government remains open to dialogue, the threat of disbanding the committee underscores the urgency for resolution. Both sides must decide whether to pursue collaboration or risk deepening the nation’s political divide.
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