Faisal Vawda lambasts PTI's flip-flop on talks

Alleges that PTI changed its tune only when met with silence

ISLAMBAD:

Senator Faisal Vawda has lambasted the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) for its fluctuating stance, alleging that the party attempted negotiations with the establishment, only to change its tune when met with silence.

The former PTI leader once again criticized the party's constantly shifting rhetoric, especially when it changed the portrayal of former army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa.

Initially criticized for his alleged role in regime change, PTI later offered an extension of his tenure under fire, betraying what Vawda described as a flip-flop in the party's stance.

"First, he was considered bad then he became good," Vawda remarked in a conversation with a private TV channel, highlighting what he termed double standards within PTI.

Vawda’s statement comes as PTI chairman Barrister Gohar Khan said that the party was not currently holding 'backdoor talks' with anyone, just a day after it was reported that the incarcerated founding party chairman Imran Khan had green-lit negotiations with the establishment and political forces.

He stated that the ex-premier had only sought names for holding negotiations, but no talks were being held right now.

Reflecting on the broader state of affairs in Pakistan, Vawda lamented a recurring pattern where positive developments coincide with upheaval and discord. He pointed to instances of street protests, violence, and legal hurdles hindering progress initiatives.

"We need to overcome these obstacles in Pakistan before we can make further strides," he stressed.

Addressing concerns about potential confrontations between the government and the judiciary, Vawda stressed the importance of swift resolution and mutual respect between the two institutions.

"It's imperative to recognize and respect each other's boundaries," he remarked, asserting that responsibility lies with both parties to uphold dignity and cooperation.

Addressing the recent controversy surrounding IHC’s Justice Babar Sattar and the subsequent statement from the court, Vawda stressed the need to halt the ongoing smear campaign. However, he pointed out that the court's clarification has also sparked significant confusion, which needs to be promptly addressed to prevent further escalation.

Regarding the assertion made in the court's statement about Justice Sattar's US green card disclosure to the IHC, Vawda stressed the importance of providing concrete evidence to support such claims if they were indeed communicated in written form to the court. This, he suggested, would ensure transparency and alleviate any doubts or concerns.