PTI plans policy of ‘resistance and talks’

No specific ‘red lines’ for negotiations, says Asad Qaiser

ISLAMABAD:

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) would pursue a policy of both “resistance and negotiations,” but does not rule out the possibility of reconsidering a Feb 8 protest call provided any forward movement in potential talks with the government and other stakeholders, according to a senior party leader.

With renewed calls for dialogue, the PTI is giving mixed signals. The party said it authorised Tehreek-e-Tahaffuz-e-Ain Pakistan (TTAP), an opposition alliance, to initiate talks with the government but at the same time it is insisting on the agitation.

“This is not a one-point agenda. Resistance is part of our policy and our right,” Asad Qaiser, senior PTI leader, told The Express Tribune here on Monday.

“However, we are also serious about dialogue and collective decisions. The chief minister’s stance is part of that broader strategy. It’s all about upholding our rights,” Qaiser, the former National Assembly speaker added.

Qaiser represents the PTI in the Grand opposition alliance and currently is serving as secretary of general of TTAP, which recently responded positively to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s call for dialogue.

Amid calls for reconciliation, the PTI senior leader defended the party’s position. He emphasised that the calls for protests were fully aligned with PTI’s broader strategy and had the leadership’s endorsement.

When asked if PTI’s position on resistance would hinder its ability to negotiate effectively with the government, Qaiser responded, “We cannot just sit idle while injustices are happening. Our leader, Imran Khan, is in jail, and our fundamental rights are being denied. We must continue our struggle for justice.”

Qaiser further elaborated that PTI’s approach to negotiations was not personal but based on principles. “We are advocating for the supremacy of the Constitution, the rule of law, civilian supremacy, and human rights,” he said. “PTI’s goal remains clear: free, fair, and acceptable elections.”

Addressing whether PTI had set any red lines for negotiations, Qaiser stated that there were no rigid boundaries. “When the agenda is discussed, it will be seen what is possible and what is not. There are no red lines as such,” he said. “But our core principles, the supremacy of the Constitution, rule of law, and democracy are non-negotiable.”

Also, while rumours of backdoor engagements with the government have circulated, Qaiser confirmed that there had been no such interactions so far. However, he reiterated that the PTI remained open to discussions with any party to uphold the Constitution and restore democracy. “We are not seeking any NRO for ourselves or for Imran Khan,” he said. “We can talk to anyone, but our principles will not change.”