According to The Express Tribune, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Central Secretary for Information Sheikh Waqas Akram has accused the government of obstructing meaningful dialogue, claiming its inflexibility has stalled negotiations. At a press conference on Thursday, Akram criticized the authorities for dismissing PTI’s demands despite the party’s consistent commitment to constructive engagement.
“The talks have stalled due to the government’s stubbornness,” Akram declared. “We are being asked to submit our demands in writing, but our stance has never wavered.” He underscored that PTI founder and former Prime Minister Imran Khan, despite enduring what he termed as “government repression,” has consistently extended opportunities for dialogue.
Central to PTI’s demands is access to Khan, who has reportedly been deprived of communication with his legal team and supporters for over three and a half months. Akram stated, “Even lawyers are not allowed to meet him,” calling this a violation of fundamental rights.
The PTI spokesperson alleged that the government has failed to honor a court order allowing Khan to communicate with his children, describing the government’s disregard for the judiciary as alarming. Additionally, he criticized Khan’s prison conditions, claiming the former premier has been confined to a “dead cell meant for terrorists” with no access to basic amenities like washrooms, television, or visitation rights. “The claims of providing him adequate facilities are false,” he asserted.
Akram pointed out that Khan had advocated for the formation of a judicial commission during the third round of negotiations with the government, demonstrating his willingness to resolve key issues transparently. “How can they address major demands when they can’t even arrange a single meeting with our committee and Khan?” Akram questioned.
Drawing comparisons, Akram lambasted the preferential treatment given to Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Nawaz Sharif during his imprisonment. “In Adiala Jail, Nawaz was consulted about his meal preferences, while our chairman is denied basic human dignity,” he remarked.
Mocking the government’s apprehensions, Akram said, “Are you losing sleep worrying about what happens if our chairman is released?” He emphasized that the government’s approach is undermining democratic processes and fostering political instability.
The PTI continues to press for transparency and fair treatment, warning that the deadlock reflects poorly on the government’s commitment to democratic principles and rule of law in Pakistan.
