The federal government has formally expressed its readiness to engage in political negotiations with opposition parties, according to a key adviser to the Prime Minister. Rana Sanaullah, the Prime Minister's Adviser on Political Affairs, stated on Wednesday that the initiative for talks now lies with the opposition, challenging them to come to the table.
Government Extends Olive Branch for Talks
Addressing the media, Rana Sanaullah revealed that the Prime Minister has already extended an invitation for dialogue to the opposition on three separate occasions. The government's position is clear: it is open to discussion, but the next step must be taken by its political rivals. "Now it is up to the opposition whether they want to come to the negotiating table or not," Sanaullah declared, framing the current political impasse as a decision for the opposition to make.
Warnings Against Instability and Support for Anti-Terror Ops
In his statements, the adviser issued strong warnings against any attempts to destabilize the country. He accused the founder of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) of seeking to create a situation reminiscent of the violent events of May 9 last year. Furthermore, he claimed that the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province was actively pursuing a similar objective of creating unrest.
Sanaullah expressed confidence that the public would reject any calls for strikes or protests aimed at disrupting peace. Simultaneously, he emphasized the government's unwavering resolve in its ongoing anti-terrorism operation. The adviser stated the administration is determined to carry the counter-terrorism campaign to a successful conclusion.
Potential for Governor's Rule in KP
The political adviser also delivered a pointed message to the provincial government in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He warned that if the provincial administration created obstacles in the path of the federal government's anti-terrorism efforts, the possibility of imposing governor's rule in the province could increase significantly. This statement underscores the federal government's serious approach to national security matters, even if it requires direct intervention in provincial affairs.
The remarks from Rana Sanaullah highlight a dual strategy from the ruling coalition: offering political dialogue while firmly committing to state authority and anti-terrorism operations. The ball is now firmly in the opposition's court to respond to this call for negotiations.