PM Shehbaz Assembles Negotiation Team
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has established a high-level committee to initiate dialogue with the opposition party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), as the threat of a civil disobedience movement looms over the nation. This significant step aims to address political tensions and open avenues for negotiations between the coalition government and PTI.
The negotiating body, comprising senior leaders of the coalition, includes Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Rana Sanaullah, Senator Irfan Siddiqui, Raja Pervaiz Ashraf, Naveed Qamar, Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, Abdul Aleem Khan, and Chaudhry Salik Hussain.
Opposition’s Readiness for Dialogue
PTI, led by its founder and former Prime Minister Imran Khan, had earlier formed a committee to engage with the government, indicating a shift towards dialogue over confrontation. The government’s recent decision to form a corresponding committee reflects mutual recognition of the need for constructive discussions to resolve political disputes.
The formation of the government’s committee came upon the recommendation of National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, who has been actively mediating between the two sides.
PM Shehbaz Praises Speaker’s Efforts
In a statement acknowledging the role of Ayaz Sadiq, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed optimism that the negotiations would prioritize national security and collective interests. “Our existence hinges on Pakistan’s existence,” the premier remarked, emphasizing the importance of unity during these critical times.
This initiative highlights the government’s commitment to resolving political issues through dialogue, even as PTI intensifies its demands and deadlines for action.
Speaker Ayaz Sadiq’s Mediation
Ayaz Sadiq played a pivotal role in bringing the two sides closer to the negotiation table. Speaking about his efforts, he confirmed reaching out to the prime minister and proposing the formation of the dialogue committee. His assurances to PTI regarding mediation were well-received, with PTI’s legal representative Barrister Gohar Khan endorsing the speaker’s active participation in the negotiations.
Sadiq stated that PTI Chairman Imran Khan acknowledged his role as the custodian of the National Assembly and expressed hope for meaningful discussions to address the political impasse.
Civil Disobedience Threat Looms
The urgency for dialogue stems from PTI’s announcement of a civil disobedience movement, set to launch its first phase if their demands are not met. This movement, aimed at pressuring the government, has raised concerns over the potential for political instability.
Barrister Gohar Khan, speaking outside an Islamabad court on Saturday, reiterated that negotiations are the only viable solution. However, he affirmed that the civil disobedience campaign would proceed as planned if no progress is made.
Government’s Stance on Negotiations
The coalition government has maintained that dialogue cannot progress under threats of civil disobedience or strict deadlines. By forming a parliamentary committee with full authority to deliberate and decide on negotiation points, the government has demonstrated its willingness to address PTI’s concerns through institutional mechanisms.
Conclusion
The creation of a high-level negotiation committee marks a significant development in the ongoing political crisis. With both the government and PTI signaling readiness for dialogue, the hope for a peaceful resolution remains. However, the looming civil disobedience movement adds urgency to these discussions, as both sides navigate the complexities of Pakistan’s political landscape.
