Imran Khan 'halts' negotiations with govt over delay in judicial commission

Former Prime Minister Imran Khan has called off negotiations with the government, citing its failure to form a judicial commission within the agreed seven-day period.

The announcement was made by PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan after meeting Imran Khan at Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail, where the party’s founder has been detained for over a year.

Speaking to reporters, Barrister Gohar said, “The founder of PTI has categorically announced that no further rounds of negotiations will take place. The government’s failure to follow through on its commitments leaves no reason to continue the talks.”

The government and PTI had initiated talks in late December to reduce political tensions, holding three sessions with little progress.

PTI’s demands included forming two judicial commissions to investigate the May 9 riots and events during protests in November 2024, as well as releasing political prisoners.

The judicial commissions, according to PTI, should be composed of three senior judges from the Supreme Court or high courts, with proceedings open to the public and media.

The government has criticised PTI’s “rigid attitude,” with Rana Sanaullah, an aide to the prime minister, stating, “Negotiations are not a decree.” NA Speaker Ayaz Sadiq also emphasised the need for compromise, warning that progress requires flexibility from both sides.

First round

The first round of discussions, held in late December, saw PTI call for the immediate release of its leader Imran Khan, the freedom of political prisoners, and a judicial inquiry into the crackdown on party protests.

In return, the government emphasised the need for open dialogue, suggesting that both parties present their respective charters of demands at the next meeting.

Second round

During the second round of talks on January 2, PTI escalated its demands, pressing for the formation of two judicial commissions.

One would investigate the May 9 protests, while the other would focus on the November 26 sit-ins.

PTI also demanded the unconditional release of political prisoners, including Imran Khan.

Though no major progress was made, both sides acknowledged that dialogue remained the only viable solution to the ongoing crisis.

Third round

In the third round, held on January 9, PTI formally presented its comprehensive charter of demands, which included the establishment of two judicial commissions led by Supreme Court judges.

These proceedings, PTI insisted, should be open to the public. The opposition party also called for assistance in securing bail and suspensions of sentences for political prisoners.

The government, while refraining from immediate action, pledged to respond within seven days.