PTI‑Govt Talks End, Oct 4 Protest Looms
Pakistan’s PTI opposition and the ruling coalition concluded the first round of talks, but PTI still plans a long march on Oct 4 to demand the release of party founder Imran Khan.
The meeting, chaired by National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, was held to defuse the political crisis. Both sides agreed to resume dialogue on Saturday, with PTI set to formally submit its demands the following day.
Attendees included Minister Amir Muqam, Adviser to the PM on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, Minister of State for Interior Tallal Chaudhry, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Tariq Fazal Chaudhry, PPP Senator Sherry Rehman, and National Assembly members Syed Naveed Qamar and Ejaz Hussain Jakhrani. PTI was represented by Chairman Barrister Gohar Khan, Senate opposition leader Raja Nasir Abbas, Amir Dogar, former National Assembly speaker Asad Qaiser and General Secretary Salman Akram Raja.
Federal ministers warned that if the march proceeds, the Centre may impose governor’s rule or emergency in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa due to security concerns. PTI warned of dire consequences if such measures are taken.
Senate Opposition Leader Allama Raja Nasir Abbas urged the government to engage with the opposition “with integrity” and emphasized that negotiations could resolve the crisis.
