Islamabad Dec 24: A group of former Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders has written a formal letter to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, demanding the parole release of senior PTI leaders, including Shah Mahmood Qureshi, to facilitate a political dialogue process. Notably, the letter does not mention PTI founder Imran Khan.
The letter was sent by members of the National Dialogue Committee (NDC), which was formed by former PTI leaders to promote political reconciliation. In the letter dated December 23, the committee welcomed the government’s offer of talks with the opposition, particularly PTI, calling it a “golden opportunity” in view of the country’s growing political, economic, and institutional crises.
The committee emphasized that senior party leaders who are currently outside Adiala Jail can play a more effective role in initiating and sustaining negotiations. It argued that the release of key leaders is essential for ensuring the credibility, leadership, and effectiveness of the proposed dialogue process.
The letter specifically calls for the parole release of high-profile PTI leaders currently imprisoned in Kot Lakhpat Jail, including Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Dr Yasmin Rashid, Umar Sarfaraz Cheema, Mian Mahmoodur Rasheed, and former Senator Ejaz Chaudhry.
According to the committee, the success of negotiations depends on confidence-building measures, and the release of detained PTI leaders would help create a positive environment and restore mutual trust among political stakeholders.
The National Dialogue Committee also urged all political parties to rise above narrow interests and work toward consensus on a Charter of Democracy and a Charter of Economy, which it described as vital for long-term political stability and economic recovery.
The letter was signed by former PTI leaders Mehmood Maulvi, Imran Ismail, and Fawad Chaudhry. Fawad Chaudhry confirmed that he shared a copy of the letter with The News, stating that the committee was formed to pave the way for dialogue between the government and PTI.