Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has set up a negotiation committee made up of government members in response to a suggestion from National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, as stated on Sunday.
On December 5, Imran Khan, the founder of PTI and former prime minister, warned that if his demands regarding the release of political prisoners on trial and the establishment of a judicial commission to investigate the incidents of May 9, 2023, and November 26 were not met, he would initiate a civil disobedience movement starting December 14.
PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan mentioned on Saturday that the government is creating this negotiation committee after Sadiq’s intervention, asserting that dialogue is the only viable path for both the government and the opposition.
On Friday, government legal adviser Barrister Aqeel Malik informed DawnNews TV that preparations were underway for a committee to negotiate with PTI, with member announcements expected over the weekend.
Speaker Sadiq had offered on Wednesday to facilitate these negotiations, stating that his office and residence would remain accessible around the clock.
The newly formed committee consists of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, the PM’s political aide Rana Sanaullah, and Senator Irfan Siddiqui, as mentioned in a statement from the Prime Minister’s office.
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It also includes PPP members Raja Parvez Ashraf and Naveed Qamar, MQM-P leader Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, Federal Minister for Privatisation Aleem Khan, Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Chaudhry Salik Hussain, and Sardar Khalid Magsi.
The statement highlighted that PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar had requested the National Assembly speaker to play a significant role in the negotiations, expressing a commitment to dialogue with PTI.
In his message, PM Shehbaz expressed hope that the country’s security and national interests would be prioritized, emphasizing that unity is essential for Pakistan’s progress.
Barrister Gohar welcomed the formation of the negotiation committee during a press briefing.
NA Speaker Sadiq also welcomed this development, asserting that discussions and dialogue are crucial for moving forward. He invited both the government and opposition to engage in good faith talks, stating that his office is always available to members. Furthermore, he asked both committees to convene on Monday at 11:30 am in his Parliament House chambers.
