The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has set January 31, 2025, as the deadline for the ongoing negotiations with the government, reiterating its key demands, including a judicial probe into the May 9 riots and the November 26 crackdown, along with the release of political prisoners. The talks come amidst escalating political tensions and PTI’s warning of a civil disobedience movement if their demands remain unmet.
Imran Khan Ready to Forgive for Pakistan’s Sake
Sahibzada Hamid Raza, Chairman of the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC), shared insights into his meeting with the jailed PTI founder, Imran Khan. Speaking to journalists, Raza revealed that Khan is willing to forgive all ill-treatment he endured, including an assassination attempt, for the greater good of Pakistan.
“Imran Khan has expressed a willingness to put the past behind him to steer the country towards stability,” said Raza. Despite facing immense challenges, Khan has urged his supporters to remain steadfast, emphasizing his trust in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government and Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur.
Negotiations Gain Momentum
After months of political gridlock, PTI and the government finally initiated dialogue earlier this week. The government delegation included prominent figures like Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, Adviser Rana Sanaullah, Senator Irfan Siddiqui, and leaders from the PPP and MQM-P. On the PTI side, representatives included Asad Qaiser, Sahibzada Hamid Raza, and Allama Raja Nasir Abbas from the Majlis Wahdat-e-Muslimeen.
The first round of talks concluded with the government agreeing to consult Imran Khan regarding future negotiations. The second session, scheduled for January 2, will see PTI presenting its demands in writing. PTI’s Secretary-General Omar Ayub, who leads the negotiation process, is expected to convey the party’s deadline for reaching a resolution.
Key Demands from PTI
PTI has emphasized the following demands as part of the ongoing talks:
- Judicial Probe into May 9 and November 26 Incidents:
PTI continues to demand an impartial judicial investigation into the May 9 riots and the November 26 crackdown on protesters. Raza highlighted the need for transparency, calling for the release of CCTV footage and evidence to uncover the truth behind these events. - Release of Political Prisoners:
PTI has urged the immediate release of all political prisoners, including Imran Khan, in accordance with the Constitution and the law. - Accountability for Protest Violence:
Referring to the November 26 protests, Raza alleged that 13 protesters were killed and 64 others sustained bullet injuries during the crackdown. He called for justice for the victims and accountability for the violence.
Civil Disobedience Movement Looms
As the talks progress, PTI has warned of intensifying its civil disobedience movement if the government fails to meet its demands. The movement, which began last month with a boycott of remittances, aims to pressure the government into addressing PTI’s grievances.
Raza reiterated that PTI does not seek a compromise deal for Khan’s release but insists on legal proceedings aligned with constitutional provisions.
Imran Khan’s Vision for Stability
During his meeting with the SIC chief, Imran Khan emphasized the importance of resolving key issues, including the Kurram conflict. Khan expressed confidence in his party members and parliamentarians, lauding their resilience in the face of what he termed as “fascist tactics.”
The former prime minister also accused certain elements of inciting protesters during the May 9 riots, stressing the need for a thorough judicial investigation to identify and hold these individuals accountable.
Government’s Response and Next Steps
The government has so far demonstrated a willingness to engage in dialogue, with both sides aiming to resolve the political deadlock. However, the looming January 31 deadline adds urgency to the talks.
The second round of negotiations on January 2 will be crucial in determining the trajectory of this political standoff. With both parties under pressure to reach a consensus, the coming weeks will be critical for Pakistan’s political stability.
As PTI continues to push for its demands, the question remains whether the government can address these concerns in time to prevent further escalation of political unrest.
