PTI to Submit Written Demands to Government at Third Meeting, Following Imran’s Instructions

PTI Information Secretary Sheikh Waqas Akram announced on Thursday that party founder Imran Khan has authorized PTI to present written demands during the upcoming meeting with the government, as part of the ongoing negotiations.

Akram’s statement echoed that of PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, who confirmed on Wednesday that Imran had given permission for the party’s demands to be submitted in writing.

Since Imran’s imprisonment last year on multiple charges, PTI’s relationship with the government and the establishment has deteriorated, marked by frequent protests that often turned violent amid state repression.

In the wake of this turmoil, Imran set up a five-member committee to engage in talks with “anyone,” signaling a shift in PTI lawmakers’ position in parliament. In response, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also formed a committee with members of the ruling coalition.

The first meeting between the two sides took place on December 23, followed by a second meeting on January 2. However, little progress has been made thus far. The next meeting is expected to take place later this week.

After delays, PTI leaders were granted access to Imran this week. Following the meeting, they held a press conference calling for an “unmonitored” meeting with the party leader.

At the press conference, Akram, alongside PTI MNA Shahid Khattak, expressed frustration over the lack of uninterrupted access to Imran. Despite this, Akram confirmed that Imran had instructed the committee to present the party’s demands in writing to the government.

“We have been unable to meet with Imran for three-and-a-half months,” Akram said, expressing disappointment over the lack of informative discussions. “Despite the lack of access, he showed seriousness and directed us to put our demands in writing and submit them to the government.”

These written demands are expected to be formally submitted during the third meeting between the PTI and government committees.

Akram also revealed that Imran had instructed the committee to push for the formation of a judicial commission to investigate the events of May 9, 2023, and November 26, 2024.

“Imran made it clear that the judicial commission must be formed during this third meeting,” Akram stated. “If not, he will question the seriousness of the negotiations, making it impossible to continue talks.”

However, Akram expressed doubt about the government’s ability to meet or enforce PTI’s demands.

“If the government can’t arrange a meeting with Imran Khan in a jail within their own province, how can we trust they will enforce our demands?” he said, referring to the Punjab chief minister. “If they cannot do this, it raises serious questions about their credibility. The formation of the judicial commission in this third meeting will reveal how serious the government is about continuing these talks.”

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