PTI Lawmakers Urge Party to Reassess Negotiation Strategy Amid Discontent

ISLAMABAD: A significant faction of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) lawmakers convened on Tuesday to voice their opposition to further negotiations with the current political establishment, asserting that previous discussions have already yielded the desired outcomes for the authorities. The lawmakers contend that continuing talks would only signify weakness on the party’s part.

During a heated joint parliamentary party meeting that extended over seven hours, many members expressed their dissatisfaction with the leadership’s approach to ongoing challenges, particularly criticizing the overreliance on former Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi. Questions arose regarding the authority granted to Afridi, who lacks a formal position within the party hierarchy, leading to intense debates among the attendees.

Conversely, approximately 15 lawmakers advocated for support of the proposed 28th Amendment, arguing that it could facilitate improved relations with the establishment and potentially lead to the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. This division within the party highlights the growing rift between those seeking a conciliatory approach and those advocating for a more confrontational stance.

The meeting, chaired by PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, also included prominent figures such as former National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser and Senator Ali Zafar. As the party grapples with internal dissent, the next steps will likely involve further discussions on the proposed amendment and strategies to unify the party’s direction amidst the prevailing political turmoil.