Party says no talks will happen without a meeting between Imran Khan and Sohail Afridi

PTI Stands Firm Against Dialogue Offer

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has firmly rejected Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s renewed offer for negotiations. The party’s spokesperson, Sheikh Waqas Akram, made it clear that PTI will not participate in any form of dialogue with the government at this stage.

Akram termed the PM’s offer as “contradictory”, stating that unless the government could facilitate a meeting between PTI founder Imran Khan and KP Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, there was no basis for talks. He added that Imran Khan has delegated negotiation authority to Mahmood Khan Achakzai and Raja Nasir Abbas.

Government Reaffirms Commitment to Dialogue

A day earlier, during a federal cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized that the government remains committed to peaceful dialogue with all political parties to ensure national development, prosperity, and political harmony.

He also warned that any attempts to undermine law and order under the pretext of political dialogue would not be allowed to succeed.

National Dialogue Committee Active

Following the PM’s renewed offer, the National Dialogue Committee — comprising Fawad Chaudhry, Imran Ismail, and Mahmood Molvi — welcomed the government’s initiative.

The committee has formally written to the prime minister requesting the release on parole of PTI leaders currently detained in Kot Lakhpat Jail, stating that confidence-building measures are essential for successful and sustainable negotiations.

Political Standoff Continues

The rejection by PTI highlights the continuing political stalemate between the ruling government and the opposition party. While the government reiterates its willingness to engage in dialogue, PTI insists on preconditions and measures that would ensure trust and transparency before entering negotiations.

The situation underscores the challenges of fostering constructive dialogue in Pakistan’s current political landscape.