ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has officially announced the termination of its negotiations with the government and disbanded its negotiation committee, citing the government’s inability to fulfill their demands, as reported by ARY News on Tuesday.
A PTI delegation, led by National Assembly opposition leader Omar Ayub Khan, met Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) Chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman at his residence in Islamabad. During the meeting, both sides discussed the prevailing political situation, and PTI leaders invited Maulana to join the opposition’s grand alliance.
Following the meeting, Omar Ayub Khan confirmed to the media that PTI had ended talks with the government. He attributed this decision to the government’s failure to meet two key demands: the release of political prisoners under trial and the establishment of a judicial commission to investigate the events of May 9, 2023, and November 26, 2026. He also criticized the government for not facilitating a meeting between PTI founder Imran Khan and the negotiating team, adding that PTI would now take its case to the public.
Meanwhile, National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq stated that the government’s negotiating committee remains committed to dialogue, despite PTI’s absence from the fourth round of talks. Speaking at a press conference, Sadiq expressed optimism that an agreement could still be reached.
He revealed that notices and invitations had been sent to both government and opposition members, with no outright refusal from the opposition. However, the opposition’s non-attendance at the latest meeting prevented any progress. The negotiating committee, formed after consultations with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and opposition leader Barrister Gohar, has held three meetings so far. Sadiq reiterated that the government’s doors remain open for further discussions and encouraged the opposition to participate.
