RAWALPINDI: PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan on Tuesday asserted that meaningful negotiations with the government could only move forward if a conducive political environment was created. He highlighted that simultaneous convictions of PTI workers and calls for dialogue sent conflicting signals, undermining trust.
Dialogue Stalled Despite PM's Offer
Speaking to the media after being stopped by police near the Dahgal checkpoint while heading towards Adiala Jail, Gohar said there had been no progress in talks with the government despite Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's offer of dialogue from the National Assembly floor. He stressed that confidence-building measures were essential before negotiations could bear fruit.
"The prime minister has invited us for dialogue from the floor of the Assembly. We have also said that political issues should be resolved through political means, but the government has to create an environment for negotiations," Gohar stated.
Conflicting Signals Undermine Trust
Gohar lamented the contradiction between ongoing convictions and dialogue overtures. "On one hand, our people are being sentenced, and on the other, there is talk of negotiations. This should not happen," he said. He called for a halt to what he described as politically motivated cases against PTI workers and leaders.
Concerns Over Prison Meetings
Commenting on prison meetings, Gohar welcomed the decision to allow Bushra Bibi's family to meet her but expressed concern over restrictions on meetings with PTI founder Imran Khan. "It is a good thing that Bushra Bibi's family has been allowed to meet her. Meetings should take place. Imran Khan's family should also be allowed to meet him, but 36 weeks have passed and no meeting has taken place. This is a matter of concern," he said.
Clarification on Protest Reports
Clarifying reports surrounding last month's protest at Chungi No. 26, Gohar said he had conveyed no message regarding any meeting. He said the family supported Imran Khan being transferred to a hospital for treatment. He recalled that a meeting with Bushra Bibi had also been scheduled the previous week but could not take place because her family did not arrive.
Path Forward
Gohar reiterated PTI's willingness to engage in dialogue but insisted the government must first create a level playing field and release political prisoners. He urged the government to take concrete steps to de-escalate tensions and foster an environment conducive to negotiations.
