‘Nawaz may be willing for talks with Imran’

ISLAMABAD: Sources have suggested that PML-N leader and former prime minister Nawaz Sharif might also be willing to negotiate with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf and its founder, Imran Khan.

No formal talks have begun yet despite discussions about negotiations between the government and PTI over the past two weeks. However, behind the scenes, significant progress has been reported, with the government, the PTI and the establishment all expressing readiness for dialogue.

Currently, the PTI accuses the government of not being serious about negotiations, while the government maintains that talks cannot proceed under the threat of civil disobedience or deadlines. At the moment, there are no visible signs that negotiations between the government and PTI will begin soon.

However, sources within the PTI, the government and key security circles suggest that all sides recognize the need for dialogue. There is a shared understanding that sitting together is necessary to resolve the political uncertainty and tensions in the country.

Sources claim that despite the ongoing verbal sparring, both the government and PTI are open to negotiations.

Sources reveal that before November 26, discussions between the PTI and certain circles were proceeding positively. It was conveyed to PTI that stepping back from the decision to march to D-Chowk could lead to relief for the party. However, events on the night of November 26 and subsequent mutual accusations between the government and the PTI created a hostile environment for talks.

Despite these events, there is a consensus among all parties that maintaining the status quo is unsustainable, and reducing political tensions through dialogue is essential. PTI sources indicate that Imran Khan has already formed a committee for talks with the government. This reflects the PTI’s realization that the current policy of confrontation cannot continue indefinitely.

Similarly, the government and the establishment recognize that the PTI remains a popular party, and it cannot be eliminated through a constant conflict with it.

Sources also claim that the government understands the importance of Imran Khan’s involvement in any reconciliation with the PTI, as decisions within the party are largely driven by him, with significant input from Bushra Bibi. Without their participation, negotiations are unlikely to yield results.

On the other hand, Nawaz Sharif and Maryam Nawaz have publicly rejected the possibility of talks, labelling the PTI a disruptive party. However, a senior PML-N leader has confirmed that Nawaz Sharif might be willing to negotiate with Imran Khan.

The establishment is also in favour of talks, but the government remains cautious, fearing that Imran Khan could still pose a threat to the system and key officials even after negotiations. To ensure success, it is believed that PTI, especially Imran Khan, must agree to not destabilize the system for the next two to three years. In return, the option of early elections could be considered.

Both sides will need to compromise: the PTI must recognize the government’s mandate and abandon its immediate demand for elections, while the government must step back from efforts to exclude Imran Khan or dismantle the PTI.

A significant obstacle is identifying a guarantor for any agreement with Imran Khan. Additionally, there must be a judicial or political resolution to the events of May 9, as the establishment insists the PTI must apologize for these events before any progress can be made. The PTI, however, maintains that May 9 was a false flag operation. It remains to be seen how the dust surrounding May 9 will settle and what political or judicial solutions might emerge.

National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq recently offered to mediate between the government and opposition, stating that his office and home are always available for this purpose. However, he revealed that neither side has contacted him yet. Sadiq added that while one side has formed a committee, they have only made statements on television without initiating direct discussions.

Meanwhile, PTI leaders Omar Ayub and Senator Shibli Faraz have reiterated that the PTI has formed a committee for negotiations and that it is now the government’s turn to take the initiative.