The government and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) are set to hold the second round of dialogue on Thursday afternoon, according to The News Sources. Initially scheduled for 11:00 AM, the meeting has been postponed to 3:30 PM at the request of the participants, the National Assembly spokesperson confirmed.
The meeting will take place in the Constitution Committee Room of the Parliament House, with National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq presiding. Sadiq is leading and facilitating the ongoing negotiations between the government and PTI.
PTI’s Key Demands
PTI plans to push for the release of its prisoners and has called for a judicial commission to investigate the incidents surrounding the May 9 and November 26 protests. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur emphasized that PTI has entered the talks in the interest of the nation but is prepared to launch a protest movement if their demands are unmet.
Gandapur outlined PTI’s demands, including the release of its founder and other political prisoners, while reiterating the need for an independent inquiry into the violent events. He expressed optimism for what he termed “real freedom” by 2025, relying solely on public support for any movement, dismissing the need for foreign backing.
Government’s Stance
PML-N Senator Irfan Siddiqui stated that the government would review PTI’s charter of demands (CoD) in consultation with its coalition partners. Legal assistance may also be sought, particularly on PTI’s demand for a judicial commission. Siddiqui assured that the government would thoroughly prepare before making any decisions on PTI’s demands.
Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, meanwhile, urged PTI leaders to prioritize national interests and refrain from actions targeting the country’s security institutions, referencing the May 9 riots. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to dialogue for the greater good, despite political instability caused by PTI since 2018.
Asif also highlighted the government’s success in reducing inflation and emphasized the need for political stability to achieve economic and export goals effectively.
