Federal government refuses to respond to PTI demands; PTI insists on forming a judicial commission
ISLAMABAD: The federal government has refused to address Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) demands before January 28, insisting that any response regarding the judicial commission will be given in the next round of talks.
PML-N Senator Irfan Siddiqui, serving as the spokesperson for the government’s negotiation committee, stated that the government would not provide a response before the agreed seven-day deadline.
PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan declared that the negotiation process had officially ended after the completion of the deadline. He emphasized the need for a judicial commission to continue discussions.
The negotiations, initially facilitated by National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, have been marred by delays and disagreements. PTI accused the government of lack of cooperation and delaying the formation of the judicial commission.
The PTI maintained that it would only attend further talks if the government forms the commission, while the government assured a written response in the next session.
Barrister Gohar remarked that the government must take a positive step for the dialogue to resume and expressed willingness to engage if the terms of reference (TORs) for the commission are discussed.
PTI spokesperson Sheikh Waqas Akram ruled out any continuation of talks, citing the government’s behavior as a major obstacle. He stated that even if a judicial commission is formed, the party would evaluate its feasibility before proceeding.
The PTI reiterated that free and transparent elections are essential for meaningful negotiations, dismissing claims of recognizing the government’s mandate.
