PTI’s shifting demands may jeopardise political talks: Irfan Siddiqui

New demands includes release of Imran Khan via executive order and involvement of 'real decision-makers' in govt talks

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Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has introduced new demands in ongoing political negotiations, raising concerns from Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Senator Irfan Siddiqui about the future of talks to resolve the country’s political tensions. 

Speaking to journalists on Sunday, he cautioned that PTI’s shifting stance, which now includes the release of Imran Khan via executive order and the involvement of “real decision-makers” in the talks, could undermine progress made during earlier negotiations.

The coalition government and PTI had initially reached consensus on two core demands during the first round of talks on December 23, 2024: the release of political prisoners and a judicial probe into the events of May 9 and November 26. However, the inclusion of additional conditions has drawn criticism from government representatives. 

Siddiqui noted that despite assurances given during the earlier discussions, PTI has yet to submit a list of demands formally. He highlighted recent comments by PTI senior leader and former National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser, who revealed the party’s desire to include “stakeholders with real decision-making power” in the dialogue process.

The PML-N leader expressed concern that this demand was not raised in previous rounds of negotiations, suggesting a lack of alignment within PTI’s leadership.

He remarked, “The dialogue process won’t move forward positively if PTI keeps changing its stance.” He also pointed out that Qaiser’s latest remarks indicated difficulties in fulfilling promises made to the government’s team during earlier discussions.

Responding to criticism, Qaiser described the submission of a formal list of demands as a “formality” and expressed confidence that the third round of talks, expected this week, would provide greater clarity. 

He emphasised the importance of sincerity and prioritising national interests in the negotiations while urging the government to consult with all stakeholders to eliminate ambiguities and expedite decision-making. He further stressed the need for PTI’s broader leadership to participate in the discussions to ensure transparency and alignment.

Despite concerns over the evolving nature of PTI’s demands, Qaiser reaffirmed the party’s commitment to the dialogue process and its intention to make “significant positive decisions.” 

He clarified that PTI had no intention of derailing negotiations and urged the government to engage meaningfully with all relevant stakeholders. The outcome of the upcoming round of talks will likely determine whether the dialogue process can move forward constructively or become derailed by the shifting dynamics.