Talks between govt and PTI futile: Sheikh Rashid

The AML leader insists on the need for resolution amidst ongoing talks.

Sheikh Rashid Ahmed, leader of the Awami Muslim League and former federal minister, downplayed the potential outcome of negotiations between the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and the government, calling the talks “futile.”

Speaking to media outside an anti-terrorism court in Rawalpindi, Rashid said, “It’s a good step that PTI has formed a committee for negotiations with the government, but these talks will lead to nothing," Express News reported.

"It’s like one grave and two people – only one will go in.”

Highlighting the importance of dialogue, he added, “Negotiations are essential. Even after wars, the world turns to talks. But if these negotiations fail, we’ll see judo karate and Bangkok-style flames.”

Rashid described November 26 as “a horrific and oppressive day,” stating it deserved widespread condemnation.

He called for efforts to improve the political climate, saying, “Political conditions are unstable. I predicted this instability until December 30. A bloody November 26 has already passed.”

The former minister shared details of his recent meeting with PTI founder Imran Khan, stating, “We had a long discussion, and he said, ‘You and I are one. Our one and one doesn’t make two; it makes eleven. Eleven is the number of improvement.’”

He underscored his loyalty to Khan, noting, “I support negotiations and always will. But my allegiance is to one person only – the PTI founder. I don’t know anyone else.”

Commenting on his recent visit to Saudi Arabia, Rashid said, “Every person I met prayed for Pakistan’s safety. The sentiment was clear – Pakistan must be kept secure.”

The AML leader warned of dire consequences if political instability persists. “The situation demands improvement, or we will face more turmoil,” he concluded.

Last month, Sheikh Rashid expressed his support for Imran Khan, stating that while he has a personal friendship with Imran Khan, he will have no involvement in PTI’s protests scheduled for November 24. He clarified that he was not present at those events and there was no evidence against him.

"I have no link with the PTI’s call for the November 24 protest. I wasn't even there, and there is no evidence against me," Rashid said.

Rashid went on to speak about the hardships faced by the public due to inflation.

“The nation is trapped in the clutches of inflation, and the government is more focused on foreign visits than addressing these pressing issues. Even if someone invites him for a small ceremony, the Prime Minister is ready to go," he said, critiquing the leadership’s priorities.

He concluded by calling for a general amnesty for the innocent and emphasised his desire for political stability in the country. "If I am guilty, let me face the punishment. But I seek stability for the country and a better relationship with the army," Sheikh Rashid said, adding that he has never spoken against the army in the past.