Prime Minister’s Adviser on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah has stated that any prospects of a deal or relief for Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan remain out of reach. This, he attributed to what he described as ‘extreme mistrust’ between the former prime minister and the country’s establishment.
Speaking to The News, Sanaullah acknowledged that while rumors of negotiations or backdoor deals occasionally surface, the ground reality is starkly different. He directly dismissed any speculation of a breakthrough, bluntly asking, “With such a level of mistrust, how can Khan be offered a deal or relief?”
Rana, a senior PML-N leader known for his forthright stance on political reconciliation, reiterated his long-held position that dialogue among political parties is the only viable path forward for the country. However, he expressed skepticism regarding Khan’s willingness to engage in such discussions.
“I do not think Imran Khan will do it,” he remarked, but added that “the best option available to him is to sit with all political parties and sign a new Charter of Democracy and Charter of Economy.”
According to Sanaullah, such a move might not yield immediate benefits for Khan and the PTI, but it could significantly pave the way for long-term political normalization.
“Neither is a hybrid system sustainable, nor can the politics of enmity continue indefinitely,” he cautioned, urging the PTI leadership to recognize and adapt to the changing political dynamics.
The adviser also recalled a previous round of talks between the government and PTI, which he asserted were unilaterally halted by Khan. During those earlier discussions, Rana said he had put forth the idea of signing comprehensive charters to ensure democratic continuity and economic stability for the nation.
“If Imran Khan refuses to talk now, his successor will eventually have to do it,” he warned, underscoring the inevitability of political engagement for achieving sustainable governance in Pakistan.
