Despite calls for dialogue, ruling leaders reject PTI’s demands and demand an apology for May 9 violence before negotiations

As Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) readies itself for a high-stakes “final” protest on November 24 in Islamabad, political tensions have reached a boiling point. The opposition party, led by incarcerated former Prime Minister Imran Khan, has called for nationwide demonstrations in response to alleged rigging in the February 8, 2024 elections and other contentious issues, including the arrest of party workers and the controversial passage of the 26th Constitutional Amendment.

In the face of this planned protest, the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) coalition remains resolute in its refusal to grant PTI’s demands. PTI’s call for dialogue has been dismissed by government leaders who insist that an apology for the violent May 9 protests — triggered by Khan’s arrest — is a precondition for any talks.

Speaking on a Geo News program, Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal made it clear that granting PTI’s demands would set a dangerous precedent. He argued that accepting the party’s terms would mean making concessions to “terrorists” as well, citing the violent actions of PTI supporters in the past. Iqbal stressed that the government could not allow the country’s economic stability to be jeopardized by any group, pointing to the damage caused by PTI’s 2014 sit-in protests, which involved attacks on government buildings and police stations.

PTI’s senior leader, Asad Qaiser, doubled down on the party’s demands, which include the release of Imran Khan and the restoration of what it calls its “stolen mandate.” He emphasized that the country is heading towards chaos, blaming the ruling coalition for paralyzing institutions. Despite the government’s refusal to engage in talks, Qaiser confirmed that PTI is determined to proceed with the protest.

“Whether the government holds talks or not, we are ready to move forward with our demonstration,” he declared, accusing the current leadership of being installed through fraudulent elections. Qaiser reiterated that Pakistan’s future depends on the restoration of constitutional rule and law.

Meanwhile, Imran Khan’s lawyer, Khalid Yousaf Chaudhry, and his sister Aleema Khan revealed that PTI would only be open to negotiations with the “powerful quarters” of the state, signalling a selective approach to discussions. This comes in the wake of the government releasing video evidence implicating PTI members in the May 9 protests.

Responding to these developments, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif stated that any negotiation with PTI would require the party to first apologize for its role in the May 9 violence. He challenged PTI members to acknowledge their involvement, referencing the government’s released video footage as proof of their actions.

PML-N Senator Irfan Siddiqui joined the chorus of ruling party leaders rejecting PTI’s demands, calling them “absurd” and declaring that the government would not make any concessions. He urged PTI to reconsider its call for protest, emphasizing the government’s responsibility to protect public order and ensure the safety of citizens.

As the November 24 protest draws closer, it remains uncertain whether any form of dialogue will emerge between the government and PTI. With both sides entrenched in their positions, the stage is set for another significant chapter in Pakistan’s ongoing political turmoil.