In a notable political move, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif formed a high-level committee on Sunday to engage in dialogue with the main opposition party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), which has threatened civil disobedience.
The committee consists of senior coalition members, including 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.
Previously, PTI leader Imran Khan had established a committee to negotiate with the government, indicating a shift from a confrontational stance.
The formation of the government’s negotiating team followed a recommendation from National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq. Prime Minister Sharif praised Sadiq’s efforts, hoping that national security and interests would guide the upcoming talks. “Our existence depends on Pakistan’s stability,” stated PM Sharif.
The initiative began shortly after Sadiq reached out to the prime minister to start the dialogue committee, following assurances to PTI of mediation efforts. Sadiq invited both sides to the first negotiation session, scheduled for Monday at 11 am in his chamber, emphasizing that “dialogue is the only way” forward.
Sadiq also mentioned the PTI Chairman’s recognition of his role as the house’s custodian. Sources revealed that the parliamentary committee would have full authority to address major negotiation points and decide on government-opposition discussions.
This development occurs as PTI is poised to initiate a civil disobedience campaign if their demands remain unmet. Speaking to the media, Barrister Gohar Khan affirmed, “Negotiations are the only solution,” but also noted the planned implementation of civil disobedience.
The government insists that negotiations cannot proceed under the threat of civil disobedience or set deadlines.
