The Pakistani government has issued a clear warning to Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehrik-i-Insaf (PTI). Officials stated they would halt negotiations if PTI refuses to attend the meeting scheduled for Tuesday. These talks began on December 23 to ease political unrest caused by PTI’s protests over alleged persecution and crackdowns after Imran Khan’s 2023 arrest.
PTI’s Conditions for Participation
PTI has linked its attendance to the government meeting its demands. The party insists on forming judicial commissions to investigate the May 9, 2023, protests and the crackdown on November 26, 2024. However, government spokesperson Irfan Siddiqui criticized PTI’s approach. He called their stance unreasonable, pointing out that while PTI took six weeks to present demands, they now refuse to wait seven days for a response. Siddiqui assured that the government would address PTI’s demands during the next talks on January 28.
May 9 Incident at the Center of Dispute
The dispute revolves around PTI’s demand for an inquiry into the May 9 protests, during which PTI supporters attacked military facilities, including the army headquarters. Reports indicate the government has decided against forming a commission to investigate the incident. PTI has also accused the military and political parties of working against them. These tensions date back to 2022 when Imran Khan alleged a conspiracy involving the opposition, the military, and the US to oust him from power.
Call for Dialogue Over Protests
Siddiqui urged PTI to prioritize dialogue over street protests. He emphasized that attending the meeting would allow PTI to discuss its reservations and work toward achieving its demands. He stressed that negotiation, not agitation, is the way forward.
Deepening Political Crisis
The ongoing tension has further destabilized Pakistan’s political and economic landscape. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s government faces mounting pressure to resolve the crisis. Meanwhile, PTI’s protests and claims of politically motivated cases against Imran Khan and other leaders continue to fuel unrest.