By Taimoor Iqbal Jadoon
Islamabad Dec 27: Well-informed sources have said that following signals from opposition parties expressing willingness to hold talks on national issues, the government has clearly conveyed to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leadership that there will be no discussion whatsoever on the February 8, 2024 general elections in any negotiations.
According to sources, the government has taken a firm stance that demands such as rejecting the 2024 elections, forming commissions to probe last year’s polls, or transferring power to the opposition through negotiations will not be entertained.
Sources said that all objections related to the electoral process can only be addressed through election tribunals and courts, and that decisions of these institutions will be accepted, even if they go against the ruling parties.
The message has been formally conveyed to PTI’s senior leadership, and PTI has in turn shared the same position with the opposition alliance Tehreek Tahaffuz-e-Aain Pakistan, led by Mahmood Khan Achakzai.
According to sources, the government has also cautioned PTI that reopening the issue of the 2024 elections would inevitably raise questions about the 2018 elections and earlier general elections, which the government considers neither practically feasible nor politically workable.
However, sources added that the government has expressed readiness to engage in dialogue on institutional and constitutional reforms, national political issues, strengthening parliament, rule of law, and broader democratic reforms. Discussions within the constitutional framework on political prisoners and other national-level matters may also be considered.
Regarding sensitive cases linked to the May 9 violence and attacks on military installations, sources said the matter does not fall solely within the government’s authority. Any relief or resolution would require the involvement of stakeholders beyond the civilian government.
Sources pointed out that the military leadership’s stance on the May 9 incidents is already public and shows no signs of flexibility.
When contacted, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan confirmed that messages from the government had been received but declined to comment on their details.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday once again offered talks to PTI, stressing that dialogue could only take place on “legitimate demands,” while warning that “blackmailing under the guise of negotiations will not be beneficial.”
Leaders of Tehreek Tahaffuz-e-Aain Pakistan responded cautiously but positively, stating they are ready for talks on national issues and constitutional restoration. PTI, however, reiterated that it would not hold negotiations with the government.
Political analysts believe that while both sides appear interested in reducing political tensions, fundamental differences over the 2024 elections and accountability related to the May 9 events will determine whether these contacts progress beyond the preliminary stage.
Although PTI is currently unwilling to engage in talks, analysts note that extraordinary circumstances often require extraordinary measures, and that dialogue is most urgently needed by PTI itself to pave the way for the restoration of normal political activity.
There are also concerns that more PTI members of parliament may face indictment by January 7 in the Sangjani rally case being heard by an Islamabad anti-terrorism court, with a verdict expected in the near future.
Sources said that for any meaningful progress in the future, both sides will need to establish direct contact in good faith.