Amid rising tensions and the threat of civil disobedience, Rana Sanaullah, the Prime Minister’s aide on Political Affairs, expressed optimism about potential talks with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). However, PTI reiterated its refusal to take the first step toward dialogue.
Key Developments:
- Government’s Stance:
Rana Sanaullah revealed that National Assembly (NA) Speaker Ayaz Sadiq has contacted the prime minister regarding the talks. “I expect progress in this matter within a day or two,” he said during a Geo News interview. - PTI’s Ultimatum:
PTI founder, currently in custody, warned of initiating a civil disobedience movement if his demands—release of political prisoners and a judicial probe into the May 9 and Nov 26 events—are not met by Sunday (Dec 22).He proposed a “boycott of remittances” as the first phase of the movement if the government failed to respond.
- Negotiation Ambiguity:
Reports of a possible agreement to use parliamentary forums for talks emerged earlier this week after a meeting between PTI’s Asad Qaiser and NA Speaker Ayaz Sadiq. However, Qaiser clarified that the meeting was a condolence visit, dismissing any discussion on negotiations. - Government’s Perspective:
Sanaullah stated that while all issues are open for discussion, there is no guarantee of which demands might be accepted. “Talks are unnecessary if demands are to be forced upon us,” he emphasized. - PTI’s Position:
PTI spokesperson Sheikh Waqas Akram stressed that while the party has formed a negotiation committee, it is up to the government to initiate talks. He rejected suggestions that PTI’s stance indicates surrender. - Civil Disobedience Threat:
PTI founder accused the government of ridiculing his offer for dialogue and clarified that the gesture was made in the broader national interest. He warned that the party’s willingness to negotiate should not be mistaken for weakness.
Possible Impacts:
The scheduled verdict in the Al-Qadir Trust Case on Dec 23 might influence the negotiation process. However, Sanaullah downplayed its potential effect, stating that the case is under trial court proceedings.
Conclusion:
As the clock ticks toward the PTI’s civil disobedience deadline, the possibility of meaningful dialogue remains uncertain. Both parties appear entrenched in their positions, with the government signaling openness to talks and the PTI maintaining its demand for government-led initiation.
