Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on Friday denied media reports claiming that PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif is seeking a meeting with incarcerated party founder Imran Khan.
Party sources clarified that no official request has been made and any decision on such a meeting would rest solely with the PTI founding chairman.
Speaking on the issue, PTI insiders stressed that political dialogue with the opposition must be genuine, not driven by behind-the-scenes maneuvering. “The matter will be placed before Imran Khan in the next meeting, and only he will decide on the party’s response,” sources close to the PTI leadership said.
They also questioned the government’s intention, referring to recent claims of “horse trading” and manipulation of reserved seats. “If the government wants political dialogue with the opposition, they should first desist from activities that intend to undermine us in the assembly,” a PTI source said.
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On the government’s side, Federal Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry highlighted PM Shehbaz Sharif’s effort to break the ice during the budget session, where he walked over to the opposition benches to shake hands with PTI leaders Barrister Gohar and Asad Qaiser.
“The Prime Minister has shown a willingness to talk,” said Dr. Chaudhry. “Nawaz Sharif and the PML-N have always stood for political reconciliation, not confrontation.”
He further hinted at Nawaz Sharif’s influence in resolving the crisis, saying, “Yes, of course, Nawaz Sharif can open the door of Adiala Jail,” when asked if the former premier could secure the release of PTI leaders.
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However, Prime Minister’s Advisor Rana Sanaullah dismissed claims that Nawaz Sharif was planning to visit Adiala Jail or Bani Gala. Speaking in an exclusive interview with private TV channel, he said, “Nawaz Sharif believes in inclusive talks, but he is neither visiting Adiala nor Bani Gala to plead with anyone.”
He added that Nawaz Sharif has always supported democratic values and has paid a heavy price for defending them.
PTI senior leader Salman Akram Raja also rubbished the reports, describing them as baseless rumors. “If Nawaz Sharif is serious about a return to constitutional democracy, such a meeting would be welcome. But as of now, he does not have the political will to take that step,” Raja explained.
