Islamabad sit-in updates: Kaira, not Khursheed Shah, acceptable for talks committee, says Imran
NA Speaker Ayaz Sadiq's secretary receives PTI lawmakers’ resignations; PTI begins core committee meeting
The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and Pakistan Awami Tehreek (PAT) began talks with the government, separately, on Wednesday, in an attempt to break out of the current impasse.
Both Imran Khan and Tahirul Qadri, however, remain adamant that the prime minister first resign.
The rallies led by the two party chiefs have set up camp outside Parliament House in the capital’s Red Zone area, where the army has been deployed.
The army, meanwhile, released a statement last Tuesday night, urging meaningful negotiations and vowing to protect State symbols.
Earlier, PAT, PTI protesters march into the Red Zone three days after their sit-ins began near Aabpara Chowk, read our coverage of march here.
For our coverage of the last two days’ sit-ins, visit here.
Read our coverage of PTI’s Azadi March and the Inqilab March here.
August 21, 11:54pm
Imran Khan urges Nawaz Sharif not to resign on Friday, since PTI wants to celebrate for two days.
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August 21, 11:40pm
Imran Khan says they will celebrate their freedom after afternoon prayers on Friday.
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August 21, 11:08pm
Imran Khan urges Indian premier Narendra Modi to stop supporting Nawaz Sharif. Imran says that Pakistan did not interfere in India's election so Modi should not interfere in Pakistan's affairs either.
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August 21, 10:58pm
Imran Khan promises that he will either get freedom or he will lay down his life.
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August 21, 10:48pm
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August 21, 9:51pm
A helpline has been established in the deputy commissioner’s office at the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) control room to facilitate the general public, according to a press release issued by the Press Information Department. The number is: 051-9108084.
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August 21, 9:44pm
Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif says that the PM will not resign and there will not be a midterm election, Express News reports.
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August 21, 9:39pm
“We had agreed to meet at nine for negotiations, however, only on the condition that if the government remove containers,” says Qadri.
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August 21, 9:29pm
"We haven't closed the doors for talks, they are still open," says Dr Tahirul Qadri.
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August 21, 9:05pm
Imran says that Qamar Zaman Kaira is only acceptable in the government's negotiation committee and not Khursheed Shah.
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August 21, 9:03pm
"I won't leave the country without freeing it from Nawaz Sharif," says Imran.
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August 21, 9:00pm
Imran Khan calls out to supporters in Karachi and tells them to gather at Teen Talwar tomorrow at 3pm for a sit-in.
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August 21, 8:54pm
Imran Khan says that after dealing with Nawaz Sharif, he will personally come to Karachi and thank everyone for voting on May 11, 2013.
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August 21, 8:54pm
"The talks did not succeed, not because we did not want them to, but because the government put containers up around here", says Imran Khan.
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August 21, 8:40pm
"I will bring back the $200 billion that have been laundered out of the country," says PTI chief.
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August 21, 8:40pm
"No western democracy would accept such elections. Are we, Pakistanis, children of a lesser god?" says Imran.
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August 21, 8:39pm
“If you want Pakistan to be a friend of the US, we are willing, but please remember, a prime minister like Imran Khan can never be a stooge like Nawaz,” says Imran.
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August 21, 8:37pm
“Richard, convey my message to the State Department. Firstly, they have no right to interfere in the politics of Pakistan,” says Imran.
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August 21, 8:35pm
Addressing US Ambassador Olson, Imran asks if the US would consider an election in the US legitimate if every seat in Congress was rigged.
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August 21, 8:32pm
PTI chief Imran Khan is addressing the crowd.
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August 21, 8:30pm
Former President Asif Ali Zardari has arrived in Karachi, Express News reports.
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August 21, 8:27pm
JUI (F) Chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman says that no parliamentary political party supports the protesting parties’ demands of dissolution of the Parliament and resignation of the Prime Minister, reports Radio Pakistan.
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August 21, 8:20pm
Information Minister Pervaiz Rashid says that no political party supports the demand of resignation through long marches and pressure tactics, reports Radio Pakistan.
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August 21, 8:15pm
Referring to Qadri's statements about 25,000 PAT workers under police custody, Khawaja Asif says that any person arrested under false charges will be released immediately once a list of such individuals is produced.
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August 21, 8:12pm
Asif says that due to sit-ins and protests, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) cancelled their visit to Islamabad, reports Radio Pakistan.
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August 21, 7:55pm
Furthermore, Asif said that the government has no intention to launch crackdown on participants of the sit-ins, according to APP.
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August 21, 7:53pm
Khawaja Asif expresses hope that the negotiations will be revived.
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August 21, 7:49pm
Khawaja Asif agrees that the situation should be resolved as soon as possible, since protests are negatively impacting the country's economy.
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August 21, 7:42pm
Talking to Express News, Defense Minister Khawaja Asif says the government wants to avoid use of force against protesters.
"Not just the people watching the protests but the protesters themselves are getting tired of this situation."
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August 21, 7:34pm
Meanwhile, Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly Khursheed Shah says that PPP chairman Asif Ali Zardari will arrive in Karachi tonight to chair a party meeting in light of the current political situation, Express News reports.
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August 21, 7:29pm
Express News screengrab of PAT chief Dr Tahirul Qadri addressing his supporters.
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August 21, 7:28pm
Qadri says that the FIA investigated him for money laundering and a 100-page document was submitted to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif stating that no evidence of such activities was found against him.
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August 21, 7:22pm
"When I was an MNA I refused to use government funds for personal medical expenses," adds the PAT chief.
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August 21, 7:21pm
Qadri says members of Parliament misuse tens of millions of rupees for personal medical expenses.
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August 21, 7:20pm
Addressing Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's earlier statements about 11 of 12 political parties supporting the government, PAT chief Dr Tahirul Qadri says most members of Parliament are corrupt and therefore support the current government.
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August 21, 7:05pm
The government and opposition committee formed to negotiate with PAT will meet at 9pm, Express News reports.
MQM leader Haider Abbas Rizvi and Pakistan Muslim League-Zia (PML-Z) chief Ijazul Haq will also be present.
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August 21, 6:35pm
Addressing the media, Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) chief Sirajul Haq says that politics of reconciliation need to be pursued.
“We appreciated the beginning of dialogue last night,” Haq says, adding that there seems to be a deadlock right now and he hopes it passes.
“Both parties have to talk, because confrontation will need to nowhere,” says the JI chief.
Express News screengrab of JI chief Sirajul Haq addressing the media.
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August 21, 6:32pm
During a meeting with senior journalists, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif says that if the government accepts the demands of PTI and PAT the country will face numerous challenges, according to Express News anchors Shahzaib Khanzada and Javed Chaudhry.
“Out of 12 political parties in the Parliament, 11 are supporting the government,” says the premier.
Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif and six other federal ministers were also present during the meeting.
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August 21, 6:12pm
Meanwhile, reports suggest that Islamabad Inspector General Aftab Cheema was 'removed' from his post allegedly over his failure to use force against PTI, PAT supporters.
Read the full story here.
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August 21, 5:40pm
MQM chief Altaf Hussain expresses concern over prevailing political situation and urges government, PTI and PAT to initiate a meaningful dialogue once again.
“A compensatory policy should be adopted,” the MQM chief says.
Further, Hussain requests the government to not use force against the protesters.
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August 21, 5:10pm
"If any Gullu Butts attack us, then I will lead the march to the Prime Minister House," warns Imran.
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August 21, 5:08pm
The PTI chief Imran Khan censures the US State Department for saying that the US does not support extra-constitutional changes in Pakistan and urges them to take back their statement.
“Why have you adopted a different policy for us,” he questions, claiming that the US would never accept election results in their own country if there had been rigging.
PTI chief Imran Khan. PHOTO: INP
Correction: In an earlier caption for the picture above, the man on the left was incorrectly identified as Imran Khan's lawyer Hamid Khan. The error is regretted.
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August 21, 5:04pm
Meanwhile, addressing the media, Information Minister Pervaiz Rashid says that Pakistan Army is fulfilling their responsibilities in a constitutional manner.
“Do not look at the army’s role in this situation as the world wants you to see it.”
Refuting rumours of a crackdown on PTI and PAT supporters, Rasheed says that the government has no such intentions.
Further, the information minister says that without the approval of Parliament it is difficult for the government to accept demands of the two parties.
“We were waiting for PTI’s delegation but they did not come for dialogue,” he adds.
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August 21, 4:48pm
PTI chairman Imran Khan says that the US State Department statement on the current political crisis constitutes interference in Pakistan’s domestic affairs, Express News reports.
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August 21, 4:35pm
PML-Q chief Chaudhry Shujaat and PML-Q Punjab president Chaudhry Pervez Elahi met with the US and Chinese ambassadors at Shujaat's residence today, Express News reports.
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August 21, 4:25pm
PAT central president Raheeq Abbasi and PAT leader Khurram Nawaz meet PTI chairman Imran Khan, Express News reports.
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August 21, 4:10pm
Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly Khursheed Shah says that PTI’s demand for Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s resignation should be the fifth or sixth demand and not the first, Express News reports.
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August 21, 3:58pm
Refuting PTI and PAT allegations that the government intends to crackdown on their supporters, a government spokesperson has clarified that the government has no such plans.
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August 21, 3:42pm
Imran Khan asks his supporters if they are ready to fight with him.
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August 21, 3:36pm
"I request the Supreme Court judges not to allow containers to be placed again," says the PTI chief.
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August 21, 3:35pm
"We sent our team to negotiate with the government but our first demand is that Nawaz Sharif should resign," says Imran.
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August 21, 3:29pm
"Shoot me first," PTI chief says addressing the new IG who has replaced Aftab Cheema.
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August 21, 3:24pm
"Today, IG Islamabad was replaced because he did not want to crackdown on protesters," says Imran Khan.
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August 21, 3:22pm
Addressing the crowd, PTI chief Imran Khan says that today is the day of their test, adding that he is not only addressing the protesters but the whole nation.
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August 21, 2:59pm
PTI chief Imran Khan says that he is about to make a big announcement shortly, Express News reports.
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August 21, 2:53pm
He claims that the water provided to his workers has been contaminated.
Further, Qadri claims that IG Cheema was removed from his post because he did not want to use force against the PAT workers.
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August 21, 2:50pm
Further, the PAT chief alleges that one of his workers, Muhammad Arshad, was killed in Gujranwala today.
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August 21, 2:44pm
Meanwhile, the PAT chief, while addressing his supporters speaks about how his supporters are deprived of food and water due to road blockades.
He adds that he will address them again at 5pm.
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August 21, 2:41pm
Additionally, Qureshi says that PTI will not start their negotiation process with the government until additional containers that have been placed again are not removed, and until the crackdown on the party is not stopped.
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August 21, 2:34pm
IG Islamabad Aftab Cheema has been removed from his position, says PTI Vice Chairman Shah Mehmood Qureshi, Express News reports.
Talking to Express News, Qureshi says that Islamabad has been sealed off once again.
Responding to a question regarding the removal of Cheema from his position, Qureshi says Cheema was asked to crackdown on PTI workers, and when he refused to do so he was removed from his post.
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August 21, 2:20pm
Rafique adds that the entire nation is worried about the current situation, saying that even the stock market has collapsed.
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August 21, 2:14pm
“Similarly, Tahirul Qadri should understand that by gathering a few thousand people he cannot overthrow an elected government,” he says.
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August 21, 2:12pm
Minister for Railways Khawaja Saad Rafique, while addressing the media says that Imran should reconsider his demands, because without the presence of a parliament, his demands cannot be accepted.
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August 21, 1:34pm
PM Nawaz was present during the NA session but did not address the assembly.
The session has been adjourned until 11am tomorrow.
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August 21, 1:22pm
Haq lauds the government for their patience in these trying times, and adds, “Thirty eight MNAs [of PTI] cannot make a decision about a house of 342 members.”
He says Imran wishes to become the prime minister, but he is using language that “we have perhaps not even used against our worst competitors”.
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August 21, 1:21pm
Haq says, “What we have seen in the assembly these last few days, is that two parties are on one side, or maybe two-and-a half, and the rest of the parliamentarians are on the other side.”
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August 21, 1:17pm
“The army is staying up all night to protect us,” says Ijazul Haq, during ongoing NA session.
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August 21, 1:06pm
Express News screengrab of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif arriving in the NA, followed closely by Finance Minister Ishaq Dar.
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August 21, 1:01pm
NA unanimously adopts resolution presented by Leader of Pashtoonkhwa Milli Awami Party Mehmood Khan Achakzai, our correspondent Azam Khan reports from the NA session currently underway..
The resolution states that the prime minister must not resign, while condemning derogatory language used by PTI chief Imran and PAT chief Qadri.
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August 21, 12:19pm
Pakistan Peoples Party’s central executive committee met in Dubai to discuss the sit-ins in the capital, Express News reports.
Some of the party members were of the view that the ongoing crisis was largely due to ruling party Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and that the PML-N should work to improve the situation.
Read here for the full story.
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August 21, 11:38am
The United States has said Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif was constitutionally elected, with the State Department also stating that Washington does not support any extra-constitutional changes to the democratic system.
Read more here.
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August 21, 11:27am
Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly meets with Federal Minister for Information Pervaiz Rashid, Express News reports.
Shah has also reportedly invited other senior leaders from the parliament, as well as prominent members of the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) for the meeting in his chamber.
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August 21, 10:38am
Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has sought a written reply from PTI chief Imran Khan and has issued another notice to PAT chief Tahirul Qadri, Express News reports.
Further, the apex court has adjourned the hearing of the extra-constitutional steps until tomorrow.
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August 21, 10:31am
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif meets with President Mamnoon Hussain at the President House in Islamabad to discuss the ongoing political crisis in the country. They discussed matters of mutual interest during the meeting.
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August 21, 1:38am
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August 21, 1:36am
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August 21, 1:26am
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August 21, 1:26am
The talks were held in a cordial atmosphere, says governor Punjab.
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August 21, 1:24am
Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal says handling the situation maturely would present a strong message to the world, adding that the next round of talks will take place on Thursday.
Iqbal adds that the round of talks has just started and hopes that they solve the current political crisis.
We want to find a win-win solution to this crisis, not just for the government or PTI but also for Pakistan, says minister.
All political parties want to solve this crisis via dialogue, Iqbal added.
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August 21, 1:20am
Punjab Governor Chaudhry Sarwar claims that back-channel talks between government and PTI were going on for a while.
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August 21, 1:15am
Qureshi says the government will examine the PTI's demands and meet again on Thursday.
He rejects the notion that they agreed to talks following the ISPR's statement on Tuesday.
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August 21, 1:14am
PTI leader Shah Mahmood Qureshi says they have presented their six-point charter of demands to the government, Express News reported.
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August 21, 1:12am
First round of talks between government and PTI's negotiation ends.
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August 21, 1:08am
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August 21, 1:03am
August 20, 11:58pm
According to sources, Islamabad Police has started collecting information about protesters, Express News reported.
Police may start arresting protesters if they do not disperse in next few days.
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August 20, 11:48pm
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to address the parliament on Thursday.
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August 20, 11:45pm
According to sources negotiations between government and PTI’s negotiation committee have started at a local hotel in Islamabad, Express News reported.
Government’s negotiation committee comprises of Punjab Governor Chaudhry Sarwar, Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan, Information Minister Pervaiz Rashid, Minister for Science and Technology Zahid Hamid, Minister for States and Frontier Regions Abdul Qadir Baloch and Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal.
Asad Umar, Makhdoom Javed Hashmi, Shah Mehmood Qureshi, Jahangir Tareen and Arif Alvi are representing PTI.
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August 20, 11:25pm
PML-Q leader Pervaiz Elahi says the on going political turmoil will end this week, with resignations of Nawaz, Shahbaz and registration of FIR against them.
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August 20, 11:17pm
We can not give any time frame, but we wish that the matter is resolved as soon as possible, says Ijazul Haq, member government's ngotiation committee, Express News reported.
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August 20, 11:10pm
If people of western countries are enjoying the fruits of democracy, why should Pakistanis be deprived of democracy, says PAT chief.
Real purpose of our march is the restoration of real democracy, says Qadri.
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August 20, 11:05pm
A Jamaat-e-Islami’s negotiation team has reached PTI sit-in for talks, Radio Pakistan reported.
JI chief Sirajul Haq and secretary general Liaqat Baloch will hold talks with the PTI leadership.
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August 20, 11:02pm
We believe in dialogue and reconciliation that is why we started the negotiation but their intentions are not good, says PAT chief.
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August 20, 10:59pm
PAT chief Tahirul Qadri and PTI chairman Imran Khan addressing to their respective supporters simultaneously.
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August 20, 10:58pm
I have accepted the resignations of all PTI MPAs from Sindh and Punjab, says Imran Khan.
I have already accepted the resignations of all PTI MNAs.
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August 20, 10:46pm
I can stay on this container for a year, says PTI chief.
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August 20, 10:44pm
I want to make the Pakistani nation one team, says Imran Khan.
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August 20, 10:42pm
Imran Khan says that if he returns without the resignation of Nawaz Sharif, the public would have to become slaves.
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August 20, 10:30pm
Refuting the government propaganda that Pakistan Awami Tehreek (PAT) is against negotiations, PAT President Rahiq Abbasi said that they met the government’s negotiation committee and presented them our demands.
Now the government committee will take these demands to their superiors, says Abbasi.
We want justice for the Model Town martyrs, however, we do not have any hope that justice will be delivered as long Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz are in power, says PAT president.
Presenting PAT’s demands, Abbasi said, we want Nawaz and Shahbaz to resign and both federal and Punjab should also be dissolved.
After that FIR for the Model Town incident should be registered and due course of Law take place, said PAT president.
We want rule of law and continuation of democracy and now it is up to the rulers whether they want to save their government or state, says Abbasi.
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August 20, 10:07pm
"Our committee has gone for talk," Imran says.
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August 20, 10:05pm
As per PTI's investigation, Imran says there was a lot of rigging in Karachi and Sindh. He added that in Punjab there was rigging on at least 98 seats in five divisions.
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August 20, 9:56pm
"This protest is not the final step. It is a battle of nerves," says Imran Khan, speaking with Express News.
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August 20, 9:50pm
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August 20, 9:40pm
Government committee meets with PAT’s committee to negotiate.
The government's team comprises Abdul Qadir Baloch, Ahsan Iqbal, Haider Abbas Rizvi and Ijazul Haq.
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August 20, 9:38pm
Federal Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal has replaced Railways Minister Saad Rafique on the government’s negotiating committee with PAT.
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August 20, 9:36pm
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August 20, 9:33pm
Imran Khan calls for a boycott of Geo and Jang media groups. He says it is not because of journalists, but because of the group's owner.
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August 20, 9:28pm
Pointing out that the rulers have blocked off Islamabad with containers, the PTI chief asks, "What are you afraid of. If you are representatives of the people, why are you afraid of the people. You are afraid because you stole the elections."
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August 20, 9:26pm
The PTI chief calls D-Chowk 'Azadi' Square, while referring to Tahrir Square.
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August 20, 9:22pm
Imran says that they are ready to talk and have constituted their negotiation committee and the government should form its committee.
He adds, "But first, Nawaz Sharif should resign otherwise how will he be held accountable."
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August 20, 9:21pm
"All those responsible for rigging in last year's elections should be tried under Article 6 (treason) of the Constitution," says the PTI chief.
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August 20, 9:20pm
Imran calls for the resignation of all election commissioners from last year's polls.
"A new election commission should be formed with consultations from all stakeholders."
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August 20, 9:18pm
"We want a neutral caretaker government," says Imran.
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August 20, 9:14pm
Imran says his third demand is election reforms.
He adds that India has fair elections; whereas, on this side of the border, winner and the losers both allege rigging happened.
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August 20, 9:12pm
The PTI chief says he would direct his government to hold re-elections in K-P, if the opposition had cried foul. "If this crowd had said "Go Imran Go", I would have left much sooner than you. I would have said, hold elections again."
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August 20, 9:08pm
"How can there be an inquiry into the May 2013 general elections when you are the prime minister," Imran questions.
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August 20, 9:06pm
"Talks will be initiated but only once Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif resigns," says Imran.
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August 20, 8:58pm
Imran says that Shah Mahmood Qureshi's house in Multan was attacked, pelted with stones by Billoo Butt.
"I've never met anyone as innocent, educated and straight-laced as Shah Mehmood Qureshi," Imran says.
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August 20, 8:55pm
Welcoming the dialogue between the negotiation team formed by the government and PAT leaders, MQM chief Altaf Hussain says the dialogue will augur augur well for the continuation of the democratic process in the country.
Further, Hussain thanked Qadri for accepting the government’s offer for holding dialogue. He also thanked Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and his team for working towards resolving issues by dialogue instead of heading towards confrontation.
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August 20, 8:54pm
Due to technical difficulties, Imran's speech has been deferred for a few moments.
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August 20, 8:38pm
Express News screengrab of PTI chairman Imran Khan flanked by Shah Mehmood Qureshi and Javed Hashmi.
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August 20, 8:28pm
Imran vows to stay in his container whether any of his supporters stay or leave.
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August 20, 8:26pm
PTI chief Imran Khan addresses his supporters at D-Chowk as crowds chant "Go Nawaz Go."
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August 20, 8:20pm
Addressing the media, PML-Q chief Chaudhry Shujaat says that they will nominate a group to conduct negotiations with the government.
Further, Shujaat says that the negotiating team included Khawaja Saad Rafique, who was nominated in the Model Town case FIR. "He should not be part of the negotiation team," Shujaat adds.
"All the people nominated in the FIR should not be a part of the negotiation team and this negotiation delegation should be changed," says Sunni Ittehad Council chief Hamid Raza.
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August 20, 8:15pm
PAT chief Dr Tahirul Qadri has refused to directly talk to the government. He says a committee comprising of PAT General Secretary Khurram Nawaz, PAT central president Raheeq Abbas and former Punjab governor Ghulam Mustafa Khar will talk to the government.
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August 20, 7:10pm
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif calls Governor Sindh Ishratul Ebad, Express News reports.
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August 20, 7:05pm
PAT leader Khurram Nawaz says government’s negotiating team will come back after an hour and thirty minutes.
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August 20, 7:00pm
Saad Rafique thanks PAT for deciding to listen to the government and enter into talks.
"No demands have been given yet. We have only greeted each other, they are waiting for their partners," says the Railways minister.
Further, Rafique says “We have provided the crowd with water, and will make arrangements for food.”
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August 20, 6:55pm
Qadri momentarily steps out of his container to tell his supporters to stop chanting and announces that he will not talk till the Chaudhry brothers reach.
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August 20, 6:50pm
Qadri has stepped out of his container to greet the delegation.
"Time has come to talk to the government."
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August 20, 6:45pm
Addressing the media, Ijazul Haq says Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s response was positive.
“PM’s message will be conveyed to Tahirul Qadri.”
However, he did not disclose any further details.
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August 20, 6:42pm
Qadri is said to be still inside his container, and will address his supporters again.
Earlier, the PAT chief had said he would not start negotiations until every member of the team is present.
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August 20, 6:40pm
PAT supporters have crowded around Saad Rafique and are chanting, "Go Nawaz Go".
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August 20, 6:36pm
After a meeting at the PM House, the government's negotiating team, comprising Ijazul Haq, Haider Abbas Rizvi and Saad Rafique, has arrived to talk to Qadri again.
Abdul Qadir Baloch is also said to be a part of the delegation.
Express News screengrab of Saad Rafique, Haider Abbas Rizvi and Ijazul Haq outside Qadri's container.
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August 20, 6:30pm
Chief of Army Staff Raheel Sharif directs Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif to resolve the current issue through meaningful dialogue as soon as possible, Express News reports.
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August 20, 6:20pm
The protesters outside Shah Mehmood Qureshi’s residence have been dispersed, our correspondent in Multan Owais Jafri reports.
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August 20, 6:17pm
Pakistan Secretariat has been sealed off, Express News reports.
Further, 2,000 additional policemen have been deployed there.
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August 20, 6:10pm
PTI chairman Imran Khan has taken the stage at D Chowk and will address his workers shortly.
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August 20, 6:08pm
Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif met Chief of Army Staff Raheel Sharif Wednesday afternoon, according to sources, reports Express News.
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August 20, 6:03pm
PTI vice chairman Shah Mehmood Qureshi says that his house in Multan was attacked by Billu Butt earlier today.
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August 20, 5;40pm
Addressing the media, PTI vice chairman Shah Mehmood Qureshi congratulates PTI and PAT participants for peacefully entering the Red Zone.
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August 20, 5:24pm
Talking to Express News, Rizvi says that they are going to the PM House after meeting with Tahirul Qadri.
“We hope that the deadlock will end soon.”
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August 20, 5:22pm
PTI's calls to spread the protests across the country seem to be gaining momentum as son of PTI leader Dr Arif Alvim, Awab Alvi announces a sit-in at Teen Talwar (Three Swords) in Clifton, Karachi.
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August 20, 5:20pm
Meanwhile, PTI vice chairman Shah Mehmood Qureshi has refused to immediately negotiate with the government.
“Our first condition for negotiations is the resignation of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif.”
Earlier today, Qureshi said that the party was ready to negotiate with the government on six demands.
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August 20, 5:05pm
Addressing the media, MQM leader Haider Abbas asks government to allow water and food supplies to reach the participants of the march.
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August 20, 4:50pm
“I heard on TV that my workers have staged a sit-in in front of the Pakistan Secretariat, and I have directed them to move back.”
Taking back his earlier direction of stopping people from entering or exiting the gates leading to the Parliament House, the Supreme Court and the Cabinet Division, Qadri asks his workers to stage a sit-in but avoid hindering anyone else’s movement.
For a detailed version of Qadri's speech, read here.
Express News screengrab of Qadri, outside his container, addressing his workers.
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August 20, 4:49pm
"No government representative has visited us yet," the fiery PAT chief claims.
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August 20, 4:45pm
Haider Abbas Rizvi and Ijazul Haq were not sent by Nawaz Sharif, he says, adding that they came because of MQM chief Altaf Husssain, and the Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly Khursheed Shah.
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August 20, 4:41pm
Qadri claims that the government is lying, and they have not sent any negotiating teams to him.
“They have started a fraudulent campaign. No one came to me for talks, and I have never refused to talk,” the PAT chief tells his supporters.
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August 20, 4:39pm
"We have not taken the law into our hands," says Qadri.
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August 20, 4:36pm
He asks Haider Abbas Rizvi if target killings in Karachi are democratic.
"Mehmood Khan Achakzai, if your daughter or son were killed the way people in Model Town were killed, would you have stood in the assembly and spoken about the derailment of democracy?”
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August 20, 4:33pm
“If Hamza Shahbaz, Hussain Nawaz and Mariam Nawaz were martyred and you were part of the opposition, would you have upheld the law and the Constitution?” Qadri asks Nawaz.
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August 20, 4:31pm
However, he questions whether the killing of those during the Model Town clashes is justified.
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August 20, 4:28pm
Refuting reports that he did not refuse to hold talks with anyone, Qadri says MQM’s Haider Abbas Rizvi and Ijazul Haq are present with him on the stage as witnesses of this.
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August 20, 4:26pm
The PAT chief begins his speech by asking his supporters to pray for Gaza.
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August 20, 4:23pm
Qadri readies to address his supporters while they chant "Go Nawaz, go."
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August 20, 4:18pm
Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) chief Sirajul Haq leaves Peshawar for Islamabad to take part in negotiations, Express News reports.
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August 20, 4:04pm
“We want to bridge the gap between the government and those staging protests (Imran and Qadri),” says MQM's Haider Abbas Rizvi.
Further, Rizvi says that he has come here on the wishes of MQM chief Altaf Hussain who wants this issue to be resolved peacefully and without any bloodshed.
He adds, "the government should accept the legal demands of PTI and PAT."
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August 20, 3:55pm
Ijazul Haq and MQM leader Haider Abbas Rizvi have arrived to meet PAT leaders Raheeq Abbasi Khurram Nawaz, Express News reports.
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August 20, 3:35pm
“We will negotiate for six demands,” PTI vice chairman Shah Mehmood Qureshi says.
Qureshi adds that PTI workers will remain peaceful and urged PAT workers to do the same.
"The government is responsible for the current situation," he says.
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August 20, 3:25pm
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August 20, 3:13pm
Supreme Court (SC) judges are reportedly stuck inside the building of the apex court, due to closure of gates and protests, our correspondent Azam Khan reports.
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August 20, 3:02pm
Addressing the media, Jamaat-e-Islami chief Sirajul Haq says the PTI chairman Imran Khan and the PAT chief Dr Tahirul Qadri’s decisions to march to the Parliament have made the situation worse.
Haq says that the situation in Islamabad is worrying the whole country.
“Decisions should not be made on an emotional basis,” he says, adding that the failure of political leaders can lead to derailment of democracy.
“The focus of decisions has shifted from Islamabad to Rawalpindi.”
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August 20, 2:36pm
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif told media in Islamabad that the prime minister cannot be removed from his post in an unconstitutional manner.
“Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif will not hand in his resignation on the demand of a few thousand people,” Asif clarifies, while speaking outside the Parliament House.
“We are ready for a peaceful and constitutional solution to this problem,” he states.
Responding to a question regarding the ISPR’s statement on Tuesday night, Asif says that the army is a stakeholder in the country and it is their responsibility to safeguard state buildings as well.
The ISPR had released a statement saying that buildings in the Red Zone are state institutions and will be protected by the army.
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August 20, 2:04pm
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has left the NA session and has reached the PM House.
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August 20, 1:43pm
Parliamentarians are entering their vehicles to exit the venue following the end of the NA session.
JUI-F chief Fazlur Rehman has been spotted outside the Parliament House.
The JUI-F chief tells Express News, "[PTI and PAT supporters] were given permission to protest, to come to Islamabad. However, their further demands are unconstitutional, and they will not get change like this."
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August 20, 1:39pm
The NA session has come to an end and is expected to resume tomorrow. Further, the prime minister did not address the house, Express News reports.
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August 20, 1:37pm
MNA Shazia Marri, during the ongoing NA session laments, “In the name of civil disobedience, what have you reduced the K-P chief minster to?”
“If the socio-political setup is handled by people who have no respect for culture, tradition, politics or religion, that socio-political set-up is a farce,” the PPP MNA says.
Marri adds, “They [PTI supporters] are kicking Pakistani laborers in the stomach because of their decision not to pay taxes.”
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August 20, 1:28pm
Express News reports that representatives of the PTI, PML-Q and AML chief Sheikh Rasheed are not present in the NA session.
Further, PAT supporters have surrounded the gates leading to the Cabinet Division.
Express News screengrab of Pakistan Army vehicles moving towards the gates of the Cabinet Division in Islamabad, flanked by PAT supporters.
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August 20, 1:11pm
"We won't let the prime minister leave the building (Parliament House) until he resigns," Qadri tells his supporters.
The PM had arrived earlier at the Parliament House to attend a National Assembly session.
Watch Qadri's full speech here:
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August 20, 1:03pm
“The revolution started from Model Town,” Qadri says.
He makes a veiled threat that his supporters' patience is running out, after which they chant 'Long live the Pakistan Army'.
"I shall condemn whoever raises a hand on a Pakistani soldier," he adds.
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August 20, 1:01pm
PAT chief Qadri is addressing his workers from outside his container.
"Our war is not with these buildings," he says, pointing towards the PM house, adding, "our war is with those occupying these buildings."
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August 20, 12:48pm
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif arrives in parliament to attend the National Assembly session in Islamabad.
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August 20, 11:33am
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif meets Punjab Governor Chaudhry Sarwar in Islamabad to discuss how to tackle the current political crisis, Express News reports.
Other members of the federal cabinet also present during the meeting.
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August 20, 11:15am
Minister for Railways Khawaja Saad Rafique had earlier tweeted that Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif will meet the PTI chief Imran Khan. According to media reports, Rafique has denied tweeting about the meeting.
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August 20, 4:32am
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August 20, 4:30am
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August 20, 4:15am
Imran Khan urges prime minister to give up his struggle to retain the premiership, as he can not win. He urges to stop being stubborn and let of of his ego.
PTI chief announces to re-convene sit-in at 4pm on Wednesday evening.
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August 20, 4:07am
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August 20, 3:50am
I will wait for your resignation outside the parliament till evening, after that I will march to Prime Minister House, says PTI chief Imran Khan.
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August 20, 2:59am
We will not leave until National Government is formed, says PAT chief.
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August 20, 2:58am
Qadri urges his supporters not to enter into Prime Minister Secretariat, President House, Parliament House.
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August 20, 2:57am
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August 20, 2:55am
We will introduce political, judicial, economic and social reforms, says Qadri.
And these reforms can not be implemented, until Shahbaz and Nawaz resigns, says Qadri.
To implement all these reforms, a national government will formed, says Qadri.
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August 20, 2:52am
We will end corruption and corrupt leaders will be kicked out of democratic system, Qadri announces.
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August 20, 2:45am
I congratulate Islamabad police, FC and Rangers personnel as protesters arrived in front of the Parliament House without incident, says Qadri.
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August 20, 2:42am
PAT chief says despite the court's order no FIR of the victims of Model Town has been registered.
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August 20, 2:38am
The issue was not about removing barriers, it was all about containing the revolution, Qadri claims.
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August 20, 2:36am
If government wanted to remove barricades near Minhajul Quran, they should have sent the relevant officer, says PAT chief.
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August 20, 2:35am
Qadri says political disagreements with the PAT should have been solved through political means.
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August 20, 2:30am
Nawaz ordered the attack on the same house where he used to come with his father in 1980’s, says Qadri.
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August 20, 2:27am
Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif had ordered the killing of 14 Pat workkers, but he never does anything without the permission of his elder brother and Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, PAT chief alleges.
The decision to launch operation was decided a day earlier in a meeting attended by different provincial and federal agencies.
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August 20, 2:25am
Pakistan Awami Tehreek (PAT) chief Dr Tahirul Qadri addressing the rally in front of the Parliament.
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Tahirul Qadri's charter of demands
Both Imran Khan and Tahirul Qadri, however, remain adamant that the prime minister first resign.
The rallies led by the two party chiefs have set up camp outside Parliament House in the capital’s Red Zone area, where the army has been deployed.
The army, meanwhile, released a statement last Tuesday night, urging meaningful negotiations and vowing to protect State symbols.
Earlier, PAT, PTI protesters march into the Red Zone three days after their sit-ins began near Aabpara Chowk, read our coverage of march here.
For our coverage of the last two days’ sit-ins, visit here.
Read our coverage of PTI’s Azadi March and the Inqilab March here.
August 21, 11:54pm
Imran Khan urges Nawaz Sharif not to resign on Friday, since PTI wants to celebrate for two days.
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August 21, 11:40pm
Imran Khan says they will celebrate their freedom after afternoon prayers on Friday.
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August 21, 11:08pm
Imran Khan urges Indian premier Narendra Modi to stop supporting Nawaz Sharif. Imran says that Pakistan did not interfere in India's election so Modi should not interfere in Pakistan's affairs either.
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August 21, 10:58pm
Imran Khan promises that he will either get freedom or he will lay down his life.
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August 21, 10:48pm
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August 21, 9:51pm
A helpline has been established in the deputy commissioner’s office at the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) control room to facilitate the general public, according to a press release issued by the Press Information Department. The number is: 051-9108084.
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August 21, 9:44pm
Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif says that the PM will not resign and there will not be a midterm election, Express News reports.
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August 21, 9:39pm
“We had agreed to meet at nine for negotiations, however, only on the condition that if the government remove containers,” says Qadri.
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August 21, 9:29pm
"We haven't closed the doors for talks, they are still open," says Dr Tahirul Qadri.
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August 21, 9:05pm
Imran says that Qamar Zaman Kaira is only acceptable in the government's negotiation committee and not Khursheed Shah.
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August 21, 9:03pm
"I won't leave the country without freeing it from Nawaz Sharif," says Imran.
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August 21, 9:00pm
Imran Khan calls out to supporters in Karachi and tells them to gather at Teen Talwar tomorrow at 3pm for a sit-in.
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August 21, 8:54pm
Imran Khan says that after dealing with Nawaz Sharif, he will personally come to Karachi and thank everyone for voting on May 11, 2013.
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August 21, 8:54pm
"The talks did not succeed, not because we did not want them to, but because the government put containers up around here", says Imran Khan.
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August 21, 8:40pm
"I will bring back the $200 billion that have been laundered out of the country," says PTI chief.
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August 21, 8:40pm
"No western democracy would accept such elections. Are we, Pakistanis, children of a lesser god?" says Imran.
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August 21, 8:39pm
“If you want Pakistan to be a friend of the US, we are willing, but please remember, a prime minister like Imran Khan can never be a stooge like Nawaz,” says Imran.
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August 21, 8:37pm
“Richard, convey my message to the State Department. Firstly, they have no right to interfere in the politics of Pakistan,” says Imran.
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August 21, 8:35pm
Addressing US Ambassador Olson, Imran asks if the US would consider an election in the US legitimate if every seat in Congress was rigged.
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August 21, 8:32pm
PTI chief Imran Khan is addressing the crowd.
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Express News screengrab of Imran Khan
August 21, 8:30pm
Former President Asif Ali Zardari has arrived in Karachi, Express News reports.
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August 21, 8:27pm
JUI (F) Chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman says that no parliamentary political party supports the protesting parties’ demands of dissolution of the Parliament and resignation of the Prime Minister, reports Radio Pakistan.
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August 21, 8:20pm
Information Minister Pervaiz Rashid says that no political party supports the demand of resignation through long marches and pressure tactics, reports Radio Pakistan.
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August 21, 8:15pm
Referring to Qadri's statements about 25,000 PAT workers under police custody, Khawaja Asif says that any person arrested under false charges will be released immediately once a list of such individuals is produced.
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August 21, 8:12pm
Asif says that due to sit-ins and protests, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) cancelled their visit to Islamabad, reports Radio Pakistan.
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August 21, 7:55pm
Furthermore, Asif said that the government has no intention to launch crackdown on participants of the sit-ins, according to APP.
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Express News screengrab of Defense Minister Khawaja Asif
August 21, 7:53pm
Khawaja Asif expresses hope that the negotiations will be revived.
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August 21, 7:49pm
Khawaja Asif agrees that the situation should be resolved as soon as possible, since protests are negatively impacting the country's economy.
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August 21, 7:42pm
Talking to Express News, Defense Minister Khawaja Asif says the government wants to avoid use of force against protesters.
"Not just the people watching the protests but the protesters themselves are getting tired of this situation."
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August 21, 7:34pm
Meanwhile, Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly Khursheed Shah says that PPP chairman Asif Ali Zardari will arrive in Karachi tonight to chair a party meeting in light of the current political situation, Express News reports.
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August 21, 7:29pm
Express News screengrab of PAT chief Dr Tahirul Qadri addressing his supporters.
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August 21, 7:28pm
Qadri says that the FIA investigated him for money laundering and a 100-page document was submitted to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif stating that no evidence of such activities was found against him.
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August 21, 7:22pm
"When I was an MNA I refused to use government funds for personal medical expenses," adds the PAT chief.
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August 21, 7:21pm
Qadri says members of Parliament misuse tens of millions of rupees for personal medical expenses.
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August 21, 7:20pm
Addressing Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's earlier statements about 11 of 12 political parties supporting the government, PAT chief Dr Tahirul Qadri says most members of Parliament are corrupt and therefore support the current government.
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August 21, 7:05pm
The government and opposition committee formed to negotiate with PAT will meet at 9pm, Express News reports.
MQM leader Haider Abbas Rizvi and Pakistan Muslim League-Zia (PML-Z) chief Ijazul Haq will also be present.
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August 21, 6:35pm
Addressing the media, Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) chief Sirajul Haq says that politics of reconciliation need to be pursued.
“We appreciated the beginning of dialogue last night,” Haq says, adding that there seems to be a deadlock right now and he hopes it passes.
“Both parties have to talk, because confrontation will need to nowhere,” says the JI chief.
Express News screengrab of JI chief Sirajul Haq addressing the media.
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August 21, 6:32pm
During a meeting with senior journalists, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif says that if the government accepts the demands of PTI and PAT the country will face numerous challenges, according to Express News anchors Shahzaib Khanzada and Javed Chaudhry.
“Out of 12 political parties in the Parliament, 11 are supporting the government,” says the premier.
Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif and six other federal ministers were also present during the meeting.
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August 21, 6:12pm
Meanwhile, reports suggest that Islamabad Inspector General Aftab Cheema was 'removed' from his post allegedly over his failure to use force against PTI, PAT supporters.
Read the full story here.
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August 21, 5:40pm
MQM chief Altaf Hussain expresses concern over prevailing political situation and urges government, PTI and PAT to initiate a meaningful dialogue once again.
“A compensatory policy should be adopted,” the MQM chief says.
Further, Hussain requests the government to not use force against the protesters.
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August 21, 5:10pm
"If any Gullu Butts attack us, then I will lead the march to the Prime Minister House," warns Imran.
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August 21, 5:08pm
The PTI chief Imran Khan censures the US State Department for saying that the US does not support extra-constitutional changes in Pakistan and urges them to take back their statement.
“Why have you adopted a different policy for us,” he questions, claiming that the US would never accept election results in their own country if there had been rigging.
PTI chief Imran Khan. PHOTO: INP
Correction: In an earlier caption for the picture above, the man on the left was incorrectly identified as Imran Khan's lawyer Hamid Khan. The error is regretted.
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August 21, 5:04pm
Meanwhile, addressing the media, Information Minister Pervaiz Rashid says that Pakistan Army is fulfilling their responsibilities in a constitutional manner.
“Do not look at the army’s role in this situation as the world wants you to see it.”
Refuting rumours of a crackdown on PTI and PAT supporters, Rasheed says that the government has no such intentions.
Further, the information minister says that without the approval of Parliament it is difficult for the government to accept demands of the two parties.
“We were waiting for PTI’s delegation but they did not come for dialogue,” he adds.
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August 21, 4:48pm
PTI chairman Imran Khan says that the US State Department statement on the current political crisis constitutes interference in Pakistan’s domestic affairs, Express News reports.
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August 21, 4:35pm
PML-Q chief Chaudhry Shujaat and PML-Q Punjab president Chaudhry Pervez Elahi met with the US and Chinese ambassadors at Shujaat's residence today, Express News reports.
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August 21, 4:25pm
PAT central president Raheeq Abbasi and PAT leader Khurram Nawaz meet PTI chairman Imran Khan, Express News reports.
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August 21, 4:10pm
Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly Khursheed Shah says that PTI’s demand for Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s resignation should be the fifth or sixth demand and not the first, Express News reports.
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August 21, 3:58pm
Refuting PTI and PAT allegations that the government intends to crackdown on their supporters, a government spokesperson has clarified that the government has no such plans.
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August 21, 3:42pm
Imran Khan asks his supporters if they are ready to fight with him.
Express News screengrab of Imran Khan addressing his supporters at D Chowk Thursday afternoon.
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August 21, 3:36pm
"I request the Supreme Court judges not to allow containers to be placed again," says the PTI chief.
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August 21, 3:35pm
"We sent our team to negotiate with the government but our first demand is that Nawaz Sharif should resign," says Imran.
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August 21, 3:29pm
"Shoot me first," PTI chief says addressing the new IG who has replaced Aftab Cheema.
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August 21, 3:24pm
"Today, IG Islamabad was replaced because he did not want to crackdown on protesters," says Imran Khan.
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August 21, 3:22pm
Addressing the crowd, PTI chief Imran Khan says that today is the day of their test, adding that he is not only addressing the protesters but the whole nation.
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August 21, 2:59pm
PTI chief Imran Khan says that he is about to make a big announcement shortly, Express News reports.
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August 21, 2:53pm
He claims that the water provided to his workers has been contaminated.
Further, Qadri claims that IG Cheema was removed from his post because he did not want to use force against the PAT workers.
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August 21, 2:50pm
Further, the PAT chief alleges that one of his workers, Muhammad Arshad, was killed in Gujranwala today.
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August 21, 2:44pm
Meanwhile, the PAT chief, while addressing his supporters speaks about how his supporters are deprived of food and water due to road blockades.
He adds that he will address them again at 5pm.
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August 21, 2:41pm
Additionally, Qureshi says that PTI will not start their negotiation process with the government until additional containers that have been placed again are not removed, and until the crackdown on the party is not stopped.
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August 21, 2:34pm
IG Islamabad Aftab Cheema has been removed from his position, says PTI Vice Chairman Shah Mehmood Qureshi, Express News reports.
Talking to Express News, Qureshi says that Islamabad has been sealed off once again.
Responding to a question regarding the removal of Cheema from his position, Qureshi says Cheema was asked to crackdown on PTI workers, and when he refused to do so he was removed from his post.
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August 21, 2:20pm
Rafique adds that the entire nation is worried about the current situation, saying that even the stock market has collapsed.
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August 21, 2:14pm
“Similarly, Tahirul Qadri should understand that by gathering a few thousand people he cannot overthrow an elected government,” he says.
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August 21, 2:12pm
Minister for Railways Khawaja Saad Rafique, while addressing the media says that Imran should reconsider his demands, because without the presence of a parliament, his demands cannot be accepted.
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August 21, 1:34pm
PM Nawaz was present during the NA session but did not address the assembly.
The session has been adjourned until 11am tomorrow.
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August 21, 1:22pm
Haq lauds the government for their patience in these trying times, and adds, “Thirty eight MNAs [of PTI] cannot make a decision about a house of 342 members.”
He says Imran wishes to become the prime minister, but he is using language that “we have perhaps not even used against our worst competitors”.
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August 21, 1:21pm
Haq says, “What we have seen in the assembly these last few days, is that two parties are on one side, or maybe two-and-a half, and the rest of the parliamentarians are on the other side.”
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August 21, 1:17pm
“The army is staying up all night to protect us,” says Ijazul Haq, during ongoing NA session.
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August 21, 1:06pm
Express News screengrab of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif arriving in the NA, followed closely by Finance Minister Ishaq Dar.
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August 21, 1:01pm
NA unanimously adopts resolution presented by Leader of Pashtoonkhwa Milli Awami Party Mehmood Khan Achakzai, our correspondent Azam Khan reports from the NA session currently underway..
The resolution states that the prime minister must not resign, while condemning derogatory language used by PTI chief Imran and PAT chief Qadri.
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August 21, 12:19pm
Pakistan Peoples Party’s central executive committee met in Dubai to discuss the sit-ins in the capital, Express News reports.
Some of the party members were of the view that the ongoing crisis was largely due to ruling party Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and that the PML-N should work to improve the situation.
Read here for the full story.
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August 21, 11:38am
The United States has said Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif was constitutionally elected, with the State Department also stating that Washington does not support any extra-constitutional changes to the democratic system.
Read more here.
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August 21, 11:27am
Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly meets with Federal Minister for Information Pervaiz Rashid, Express News reports.
Shah has also reportedly invited other senior leaders from the parliament, as well as prominent members of the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) for the meeting in his chamber.
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August 21, 10:38am
Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has sought a written reply from PTI chief Imran Khan and has issued another notice to PAT chief Tahirul Qadri, Express News reports.
Further, the apex court has adjourned the hearing of the extra-constitutional steps until tomorrow.
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August 21, 10:31am
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif meets with President Mamnoon Hussain at the President House in Islamabad to discuss the ongoing political crisis in the country. They discussed matters of mutual interest during the meeting.
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August 21, 1:38am
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August 21, 1:36am
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August 21, 1:26am
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August 21, 1:26am
The talks were held in a cordial atmosphere, says governor Punjab.
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August 21, 1:24am
Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal says handling the situation maturely would present a strong message to the world, adding that the next round of talks will take place on Thursday.
Iqbal adds that the round of talks has just started and hopes that they solve the current political crisis.
We want to find a win-win solution to this crisis, not just for the government or PTI but also for Pakistan, says minister.
All political parties want to solve this crisis via dialogue, Iqbal added.
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August 21, 1:20am
Punjab Governor Chaudhry Sarwar claims that back-channel talks between government and PTI were going on for a while.
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August 21, 1:15am
Qureshi says the government will examine the PTI's demands and meet again on Thursday.
He rejects the notion that they agreed to talks following the ISPR's statement on Tuesday.
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August 21, 1:14am
PTI leader Shah Mahmood Qureshi says they have presented their six-point charter of demands to the government, Express News reported.
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August 21, 1:12am
First round of talks between government and PTI's negotiation ends.
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August 21, 1:08am
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August 21, 1:03am
Tariq khan, an IT consultant, has come from Australia on a mission of cleaning Pakistan. He was present at the site of sit-in and spent several hours collecting garbage. PHOTO: QAMAR ZAMAN/EXPRESS
Tariq khan, an IT consultant, has come from Australia on a mission of cleaning Pakistan. He was present at the site of sit-in and spent several hours collecting garbage. PHOTO: QAMAR ZAMAN/EXPRESS
August 20, 11:58pm
According to sources, Islamabad Police has started collecting information about protesters, Express News reported.
Police may start arresting protesters if they do not disperse in next few days.
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August 20, 11:48pm
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to address the parliament on Thursday.
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August 20, 11:45pm
According to sources negotiations between government and PTI’s negotiation committee have started at a local hotel in Islamabad, Express News reported.
Government’s negotiation committee comprises of Punjab Governor Chaudhry Sarwar, Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan, Information Minister Pervaiz Rashid, Minister for Science and Technology Zahid Hamid, Minister for States and Frontier Regions Abdul Qadir Baloch and Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal.
Asad Umar, Makhdoom Javed Hashmi, Shah Mehmood Qureshi, Jahangir Tareen and Arif Alvi are representing PTI.
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August 20, 11:25pm
PML-Q leader Pervaiz Elahi says the on going political turmoil will end this week, with resignations of Nawaz, Shahbaz and registration of FIR against them.
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August 20, 11:17pm
We can not give any time frame, but we wish that the matter is resolved as soon as possible, says Ijazul Haq, member government's ngotiation committee, Express News reported.
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August 20, 11:10pm
If people of western countries are enjoying the fruits of democracy, why should Pakistanis be deprived of democracy, says PAT chief.
Real purpose of our march is the restoration of real democracy, says Qadri.
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August 20, 11:05pm
A Jamaat-e-Islami’s negotiation team has reached PTI sit-in for talks, Radio Pakistan reported.
JI chief Sirajul Haq and secretary general Liaqat Baloch will hold talks with the PTI leadership.
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August 20, 11:02pm
We believe in dialogue and reconciliation that is why we started the negotiation but their intentions are not good, says PAT chief.
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August 20, 10:59pm
PAT chief Tahirul Qadri and PTI chairman Imran Khan addressing to their respective supporters simultaneously.
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August 20, 10:58pm
I have accepted the resignations of all PTI MPAs from Sindh and Punjab, says Imran Khan.
I have already accepted the resignations of all PTI MNAs.
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August 20, 10:46pm
I can stay on this container for a year, says PTI chief.
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August 20, 10:44pm
I want to make the Pakistani nation one team, says Imran Khan.
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August 20, 10:42pm
Imran Khan says that if he returns without the resignation of Nawaz Sharif, the public would have to become slaves.
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August 20, 10:30pm
Refuting the government propaganda that Pakistan Awami Tehreek (PAT) is against negotiations, PAT President Rahiq Abbasi said that they met the government’s negotiation committee and presented them our demands.
Now the government committee will take these demands to their superiors, says Abbasi.
We want justice for the Model Town martyrs, however, we do not have any hope that justice will be delivered as long Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz are in power, says PAT president.
Presenting PAT’s demands, Abbasi said, we want Nawaz and Shahbaz to resign and both federal and Punjab should also be dissolved.
After that FIR for the Model Town incident should be registered and due course of Law take place, said PAT president.
We want rule of law and continuation of democracy and now it is up to the rulers whether they want to save their government or state, says Abbasi.
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August 20, 10:07pm
"Our committee has gone for talk," Imran says.
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August 20, 10:05pm
As per PTI's investigation, Imran says there was a lot of rigging in Karachi and Sindh. He added that in Punjab there was rigging on at least 98 seats in five divisions.
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August 20, 9:56pm
"This protest is not the final step. It is a battle of nerves," says Imran Khan, speaking with Express News.
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August 20, 9:50pm
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August 20, 9:40pm
Government committee meets with PAT’s committee to negotiate.
The government's team comprises Abdul Qadir Baloch, Ahsan Iqbal, Haider Abbas Rizvi and Ijazul Haq.
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August 20, 9:38pm
Federal Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal has replaced Railways Minister Saad Rafique on the government’s negotiating committee with PAT.
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August 20, 9:36pm
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August 20, 9:33pm
Imran Khan calls for a boycott of Geo and Jang media groups. He says it is not because of journalists, but because of the group's owner.
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August 20, 9:28pm
Pointing out that the rulers have blocked off Islamabad with containers, the PTI chief asks, "What are you afraid of. If you are representatives of the people, why are you afraid of the people. You are afraid because you stole the elections."
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August 20, 9:26pm
The PTI chief calls D-Chowk 'Azadi' Square, while referring to Tahrir Square.
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August 20, 9:22pm
Imran says that they are ready to talk and have constituted their negotiation committee and the government should form its committee.
He adds, "But first, Nawaz Sharif should resign otherwise how will he be held accountable."
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August 20, 9:21pm
"All those responsible for rigging in last year's elections should be tried under Article 6 (treason) of the Constitution," says the PTI chief.
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August 20, 9:20pm
Imran calls for the resignation of all election commissioners from last year's polls.
"A new election commission should be formed with consultations from all stakeholders."
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August 20, 9:18pm
"We want a neutral caretaker government," says Imran.
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August 20, 9:14pm
Imran says his third demand is election reforms.
He adds that India has fair elections; whereas, on this side of the border, winner and the losers both allege rigging happened.
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August 20, 9:12pm
The PTI chief says he would direct his government to hold re-elections in K-P, if the opposition had cried foul. "If this crowd had said "Go Imran Go", I would have left much sooner than you. I would have said, hold elections again."
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August 20, 9:08pm
"How can there be an inquiry into the May 2013 general elections when you are the prime minister," Imran questions.
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August 20, 9:06pm
"Talks will be initiated but only once Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif resigns," says Imran.
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August 20, 8:58pm
Imran says that Shah Mahmood Qureshi's house in Multan was attacked, pelted with stones by Billoo Butt.
"I've never met anyone as innocent, educated and straight-laced as Shah Mehmood Qureshi," Imran says.
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August 20, 8:55pm
Welcoming the dialogue between the negotiation team formed by the government and PAT leaders, MQM chief Altaf Hussain says the dialogue will augur augur well for the continuation of the democratic process in the country.
Further, Hussain thanked Qadri for accepting the government’s offer for holding dialogue. He also thanked Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and his team for working towards resolving issues by dialogue instead of heading towards confrontation.
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August 20, 8:54pm
Due to technical difficulties, Imran's speech has been deferred for a few moments.
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August 20, 8:38pm
Express News screengrab of PTI chairman Imran Khan flanked by Shah Mehmood Qureshi and Javed Hashmi.
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August 20, 8:28pm
Imran vows to stay in his container whether any of his supporters stay or leave.
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August 20, 8:26pm
PTI chief Imran Khan addresses his supporters at D-Chowk as crowds chant "Go Nawaz Go."
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August 20, 8:20pm
Addressing the media, PML-Q chief Chaudhry Shujaat says that they will nominate a group to conduct negotiations with the government.
Further, Shujaat says that the negotiating team included Khawaja Saad Rafique, who was nominated in the Model Town case FIR. "He should not be part of the negotiation team," Shujaat adds.
"All the people nominated in the FIR should not be a part of the negotiation team and this negotiation delegation should be changed," says Sunni Ittehad Council chief Hamid Raza.
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August 20, 8:15pm
PAT chief Dr Tahirul Qadri has refused to directly talk to the government. He says a committee comprising of PAT General Secretary Khurram Nawaz, PAT central president Raheeq Abbas and former Punjab governor Ghulam Mustafa Khar will talk to the government.
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August 20, 7:10pm
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif calls Governor Sindh Ishratul Ebad, Express News reports.
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August 20, 7:05pm
PAT leader Khurram Nawaz says government’s negotiating team will come back after an hour and thirty minutes.
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August 20, 7:00pm
Saad Rafique thanks PAT for deciding to listen to the government and enter into talks.
"No demands have been given yet. We have only greeted each other, they are waiting for their partners," says the Railways minister.
Further, Rafique says “We have provided the crowd with water, and will make arrangements for food.”
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August 20, 6:55pm
Qadri momentarily steps out of his container to tell his supporters to stop chanting and announces that he will not talk till the Chaudhry brothers reach.
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August 20, 6:50pm
Qadri has stepped out of his container to greet the delegation.
"Time has come to talk to the government."
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August 20, 6:45pm
Addressing the media, Ijazul Haq says Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s response was positive.
“PM’s message will be conveyed to Tahirul Qadri.”
However, he did not disclose any further details.
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August 20, 6:42pm
Qadri is said to be still inside his container, and will address his supporters again.
Earlier, the PAT chief had said he would not start negotiations until every member of the team is present.
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August 20, 6:40pm
PAT supporters have crowded around Saad Rafique and are chanting, "Go Nawaz Go".
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August 20, 6:36pm
After a meeting at the PM House, the government's negotiating team, comprising Ijazul Haq, Haider Abbas Rizvi and Saad Rafique, has arrived to talk to Qadri again.
Abdul Qadir Baloch is also said to be a part of the delegation.
Express News screengrab of Saad Rafique, Haider Abbas Rizvi and Ijazul Haq outside Qadri's container.
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August 20, 6:30pm
Chief of Army Staff Raheel Sharif directs Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif to resolve the current issue through meaningful dialogue as soon as possible, Express News reports.
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August 20, 6:20pm
The protesters outside Shah Mehmood Qureshi’s residence have been dispersed, our correspondent in Multan Owais Jafri reports.
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August 20, 6:17pm
Pakistan Secretariat has been sealed off, Express News reports.
Further, 2,000 additional policemen have been deployed there.
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August 20, 6:10pm
PTI chairman Imran Khan has taken the stage at D Chowk and will address his workers shortly.
Express News screen grab of Imran Khan on the stage
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August 20, 6:08pm
Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif met Chief of Army Staff Raheel Sharif Wednesday afternoon, according to sources, reports Express News.
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August 20, 6:03pm
PTI vice chairman Shah Mehmood Qureshi says that his house in Multan was attacked by Billu Butt earlier today.
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August 20, 5;40pm
Addressing the media, PTI vice chairman Shah Mehmood Qureshi congratulates PTI and PAT participants for peacefully entering the Red Zone.
Express News screen grab of Shah Mehmood Qureshi
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August 20, 5:24pm
Talking to Express News, Rizvi says that they are going to the PM House after meeting with Tahirul Qadri.
“We hope that the deadlock will end soon.”
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August 20, 5:22pm
PTI's calls to spread the protests across the country seem to be gaining momentum as son of PTI leader Dr Arif Alvim, Awab Alvi announces a sit-in at Teen Talwar (Three Swords) in Clifton, Karachi.
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August 20, 5:20pm
Meanwhile, PTI vice chairman Shah Mehmood Qureshi has refused to immediately negotiate with the government.
“Our first condition for negotiations is the resignation of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif.”
Earlier today, Qureshi said that the party was ready to negotiate with the government on six demands.
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August 20, 5:05pm
Addressing the media, MQM leader Haider Abbas asks government to allow water and food supplies to reach the participants of the march.
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August 20, 4:50pm
“I heard on TV that my workers have staged a sit-in in front of the Pakistan Secretariat, and I have directed them to move back.”
Taking back his earlier direction of stopping people from entering or exiting the gates leading to the Parliament House, the Supreme Court and the Cabinet Division, Qadri asks his workers to stage a sit-in but avoid hindering anyone else’s movement.
For a detailed version of Qadri's speech, read here.
Express News screengrab of Qadri, outside his container, addressing his workers.
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August 20, 4:49pm
"No government representative has visited us yet," the fiery PAT chief claims.
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August 20, 4:45pm
Haider Abbas Rizvi and Ijazul Haq were not sent by Nawaz Sharif, he says, adding that they came because of MQM chief Altaf Husssain, and the Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly Khursheed Shah.
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August 20, 4:41pm
Qadri claims that the government is lying, and they have not sent any negotiating teams to him.
“They have started a fraudulent campaign. No one came to me for talks, and I have never refused to talk,” the PAT chief tells his supporters.
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August 20, 4:39pm
"We have not taken the law into our hands," says Qadri.
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August 20, 4:36pm
He asks Haider Abbas Rizvi if target killings in Karachi are democratic.
"Mehmood Khan Achakzai, if your daughter or son were killed the way people in Model Town were killed, would you have stood in the assembly and spoken about the derailment of democracy?”
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August 20, 4:33pm
“If Hamza Shahbaz, Hussain Nawaz and Mariam Nawaz were martyred and you were part of the opposition, would you have upheld the law and the Constitution?” Qadri asks Nawaz.
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August 20, 4:31pm
However, he questions whether the killing of those during the Model Town clashes is justified.
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August 20, 4:28pm
Refuting reports that he did not refuse to hold talks with anyone, Qadri says MQM’s Haider Abbas Rizvi and Ijazul Haq are present with him on the stage as witnesses of this.
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August 20, 4:26pm
The PAT chief begins his speech by asking his supporters to pray for Gaza.
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August 20, 4:23pm
Qadri readies to address his supporters while they chant "Go Nawaz, go."
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August 20, 4:18pm
Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) chief Sirajul Haq leaves Peshawar for Islamabad to take part in negotiations, Express News reports.
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August 20, 4:04pm
“We want to bridge the gap between the government and those staging protests (Imran and Qadri),” says MQM's Haider Abbas Rizvi.
Further, Rizvi says that he has come here on the wishes of MQM chief Altaf Hussain who wants this issue to be resolved peacefully and without any bloodshed.
He adds, "the government should accept the legal demands of PTI and PAT."
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August 20, 3:55pm
Ijazul Haq and MQM leader Haider Abbas Rizvi have arrived to meet PAT leaders Raheeq Abbasi Khurram Nawaz, Express News reports.
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August 20, 3:35pm
“We will negotiate for six demands,” PTI vice chairman Shah Mehmood Qureshi says.
Qureshi adds that PTI workers will remain peaceful and urged PAT workers to do the same.
"The government is responsible for the current situation," he says.
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August 20, 3:25pm
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August 20, 3:13pm
Supreme Court (SC) judges are reportedly stuck inside the building of the apex court, due to closure of gates and protests, our correspondent Azam Khan reports.
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August 20, 3:02pm
Addressing the media, Jamaat-e-Islami chief Sirajul Haq says the PTI chairman Imran Khan and the PAT chief Dr Tahirul Qadri’s decisions to march to the Parliament have made the situation worse.
Haq says that the situation in Islamabad is worrying the whole country.
“Decisions should not be made on an emotional basis,” he says, adding that the failure of political leaders can lead to derailment of democracy.
“The focus of decisions has shifted from Islamabad to Rawalpindi.”
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August 20, 2:36pm
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif told media in Islamabad that the prime minister cannot be removed from his post in an unconstitutional manner.
“Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif will not hand in his resignation on the demand of a few thousand people,” Asif clarifies, while speaking outside the Parliament House.
“We are ready for a peaceful and constitutional solution to this problem,” he states.
Responding to a question regarding the ISPR’s statement on Tuesday night, Asif says that the army is a stakeholder in the country and it is their responsibility to safeguard state buildings as well.
The ISPR had released a statement saying that buildings in the Red Zone are state institutions and will be protected by the army.
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August 20, 2:04pm
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has left the NA session and has reached the PM House.
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August 20, 1:43pm
Parliamentarians are entering their vehicles to exit the venue following the end of the NA session.
JUI-F chief Fazlur Rehman has been spotted outside the Parliament House.
The JUI-F chief tells Express News, "[PTI and PAT supporters] were given permission to protest, to come to Islamabad. However, their further demands are unconstitutional, and they will not get change like this."
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August 20, 1:39pm
The NA session has come to an end and is expected to resume tomorrow. Further, the prime minister did not address the house, Express News reports.
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August 20, 1:37pm
MNA Shazia Marri, during the ongoing NA session laments, “In the name of civil disobedience, what have you reduced the K-P chief minster to?”
“If the socio-political setup is handled by people who have no respect for culture, tradition, politics or religion, that socio-political set-up is a farce,” the PPP MNA says.
Marri adds, “They [PTI supporters] are kicking Pakistani laborers in the stomach because of their decision not to pay taxes.”
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August 20, 1:28pm
Express News reports that representatives of the PTI, PML-Q and AML chief Sheikh Rasheed are not present in the NA session.
Further, PAT supporters have surrounded the gates leading to the Cabinet Division.
Express News screengrab of Pakistan Army vehicles moving towards the gates of the Cabinet Division in Islamabad, flanked by PAT supporters.
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August 20, 1:11pm
"We won't let the prime minister leave the building (Parliament House) until he resigns," Qadri tells his supporters.
The PM had arrived earlier at the Parliament House to attend a National Assembly session.
Watch Qadri's full speech here:
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August 20, 1:03pm
“The revolution started from Model Town,” Qadri says.
He makes a veiled threat that his supporters' patience is running out, after which they chant 'Long live the Pakistan Army'.
"I shall condemn whoever raises a hand on a Pakistani soldier," he adds.
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August 20, 1:01pm
PAT chief Qadri is addressing his workers from outside his container.
"Our war is not with these buildings," he says, pointing towards the PM house, adding, "our war is with those occupying these buildings."
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August 20, 12:48pm
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif arrives in parliament to attend the National Assembly session in Islamabad.
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August 20, 11:33am
Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif meets Punjab Governor Chaudhry Sarwar in Islamabad to discuss how to tackle the current political crisis, Express News reports.
Other members of the federal cabinet also present during the meeting.
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August 20, 11:15am
Minister for Railways Khawaja Saad Rafique had earlier tweeted that Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif will meet the PTI chief Imran Khan. According to media reports, Rafique has denied tweeting about the meeting.
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August 20, 4:32am
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August 20, 4:30am
Protesters sleeping outside Parliament House. PHOTO IRFAN GHAURI/EXPRESS
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August 20, 4:15am
Imran Khan urges prime minister to give up his struggle to retain the premiership, as he can not win. He urges to stop being stubborn and let of of his ego.
PTI chief announces to re-convene sit-in at 4pm on Wednesday evening.
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August 20, 4:07am
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August 20, 3:50am
I will wait for your resignation outside the parliament till evening, after that I will march to Prime Minister House, says PTI chief Imran Khan.
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August 20, 2:59am
We will not leave until National Government is formed, says PAT chief.
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August 20, 2:58am
Qadri urges his supporters not to enter into Prime Minister Secretariat, President House, Parliament House.
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August 20, 2:57am
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August 20, 2:55am
We will introduce political, judicial, economic and social reforms, says Qadri.
And these reforms can not be implemented, until Shahbaz and Nawaz resigns, says Qadri.
To implement all these reforms, a national government will formed, says Qadri.
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August 20, 2:52am
We will end corruption and corrupt leaders will be kicked out of democratic system, Qadri announces.
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August 20, 2:45am
I congratulate Islamabad police, FC and Rangers personnel as protesters arrived in front of the Parliament House without incident, says Qadri.
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August 20, 2:42am
PAT chief says despite the court's order no FIR of the victims of Model Town has been registered.
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August 20, 2:38am
The issue was not about removing barriers, it was all about containing the revolution, Qadri claims.
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August 20, 2:36am
If government wanted to remove barricades near Minhajul Quran, they should have sent the relevant officer, says PAT chief.
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August 20, 2:35am
Qadri says political disagreements with the PAT should have been solved through political means.
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August 20, 2:30am
Nawaz ordered the attack on the same house where he used to come with his father in 1980’s, says Qadri.
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August 20, 2:27am
Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif had ordered the killing of 14 Pat workkers, but he never does anything without the permission of his elder brother and Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, PAT chief alleges.
The decision to launch operation was decided a day earlier in a meeting attended by different provincial and federal agencies.
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August 20, 2:25am
Pakistan Awami Tehreek (PAT) chief Dr Tahirul Qadri addressing the rally in front of the Parliament.
PAT chief Tahir-ul-Qadri waves to his supporters in front of the Parliament during "Revolution March" protest in Pakistan's capital of Islamabad on August 20, 2014. PHOTO: AFP
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Tahirul Qadri's charter of demands