Govt and PTI deny reports of deal, Imran says 'absolutely not'
Supporters of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) run with batons amid the tear gas smokes fired by police to prevent them from attending the protest march planned by ousted prime minister Imran Khan in Islamabad, May 25, 2022. PHOTO: REUTERS
The incumbent government led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) on Wednesday dismissed reports that a deal had been reached between the two sides as the former ruling party's long march made its way towards the federal capital.
Federal Information Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb confirmed in a statement that there was no agreement between the federal government and the PTI.
PTI Chairman Imran Khan also denied rumours of a deal with the government and said "absolutely not" to any such prospects. He added the party leadership was not moving toward the federal capital.
Rumours & delib disinfo that a deal has been done. Absolutely not! We are moving towards Islamabad & no question of any deal. We will remain in Islamabad till announcement of dates for dissolution of assemblies & elections are given. Calling all ppl of Islamabad & Pindi to join
"We will remain in Islamabad till the announcement of dates for dissolution of assemblies and elections are given." He further urged the people of the twin cities to join PTI's march.
Earlier, rumours were doing the round claiming that the government had agreed to hold a meeting under the stipulation that the PTI would agree with the government’s conditions, including that Imran Khan would address his rally in Islamabad and then leave – instead of holding a long march.
Read more: Govt, PTI accuse each other for cop’s death
PTI leader Shahbaz Gill confirmed on his Twitter account that the news regarding the agreement was "completely false and untrue".
"The only purpose is to mislead the people. No such promise has been made and will not be made".
Govt rejects early elections
The PML-N government and its allies have decided that the current setup will complete its tenure till August 2023 and the general elections would be held at the stipulated time next year.
Express News quoting sources reported that following a flurry of meetings, the coalition partners rejected the demand for early elections and decided to take tough measures to stabilise the economy and improve governance.
Amid facing louder calls to dissolve assemblies and announce snap polls, the allies expressed the resolve that they would not yield to any pressure.