Govt to not interrupt PTI march if it’s peaceful

Decision to use legal options will be taken in consultation with allies

KARACHI:

The federal government, in initial consultation with its allies, has decided not to interrupt the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s long march if it is kept peaceful.

According to sources, if an attempt is made to protest in the red zone, including in parliament or the Prime Minister House, the decision to use legal options will be taken in consultation with the allies and the given situation.

“The option of negotiating with the PTI will also be used by the federation.”

It is being considered that no one, including former prime minister Imran Khan, will be arrested if the PTI assures that its march will remain peaceful.

The sources said that important decisions on other issues, including electoral reforms, will be made in consultation with allies.

Decisions on the term of the federal government, dissolution of the National Assembly or holding snap elections are being pondered over with the coalition leaders.

After their opinion and decision, a new strategy will be announced. It has also been decided to take the National Security Committee and parliament into confidence on the economic and political situations as well as other issues.

Read PTI marchers to descend on capital on May 25

In this regard, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will soon convene a meeting of the NSC after consulting allies. The most important decisions on national affairs will be taken with the confidence of the political and military leadership.

The PML-N sources told The Express Tribune that PM Shehbaz was concerned about the financial situation of the country. “Whether or not to increase petroleum projects, political situation, electoral reforms, recent court decisions and the government term are the topics being discussed with the coalition partners.”

Many leaders of the coalition government are not in favour of holding immediate elections as they want electoral reforms first. Others are of the opinion that the federal government should complete its term.