Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders have explained why their talks with the federal government failed to reach an agreement. They pointed to two major issues. The first involved access to Imran Khan. The second concerned the proposed counterterrorism policy in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP).
The government and PTI held talks to reduce political tensions. The negotiations also aimed to prevent PTI’s planned march towards Islamabad. However, both sides failed to settle their remaining differences.
Why PTI Says the Talks Failed
PTI Secretary General Salman Akram Raja said the counterterrorism issue played a major role in the deadlock. He said the government wanted the KP government to take responsibility for counterterrorism actions.
Raja said PTI supports strong action against terrorism. However, he wants the federal and provincial governments to consult each other before taking major steps in KP.
He also said authorities should consider local conditions when planning security operations. According to Raja, officials should also consider the concerns of local communities and the possible impact on civilians.
PTI leaders further called for political and tribal representatives in KP to have a role in discussions about the province’s counterterrorism strategy.
The government gave a different account of the talks. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said both sides had settled most points. He accused KP Chief Minister Sohail Afridi of changing the draft agreement at the final stage.
Government representatives also argued that counterterrorism remains a national responsibility. They said the KP government must play its constitutional role in tackling militancy.
Imran Khan Access Also Caused Disagreement
Access to Imran Khan became another major issue during the negotiations. PTI leader Asad Qaiser said the party had withdrawn several other demands. However, PTI still wanted its leaders to meet Khan before finalising an agreement.
Haleem Adil Sheikh said PTI also raised concerns about Khan’s health and medical care. The party wanted his personal doctors to have access to him.
PTI leaders said the government did not accept their position on these matters. Salman Akram Raja also said future political reconciliation would require Imran Khan’s involvement.
The government has offered a different position. Officials say they had already addressed the issue of Khan’s meetings and medical arrangements. They identified the KP counterterrorism dispute as the main remaining obstacle.
What Happens Next
The failed talks have left the political dispute unresolved. PTI has continued its political mobilisation and planned march towards Islamabad.
For now, the two sides remain divided over Imran Khan’s political role and the future counterterrorism strategy in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Further negotiations could depend on whether both sides agree to revisit these issues.
One Response