Islamabad, August 13 — Quiet backchannel efforts have improved the chances of formal talks between the government and the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), with most PTI parliamentarians — including some recently convicted members — now favouring engagement.
According to insiders, National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq has been central in bridging the gap, maintaining contact with both camps. On the government side, leaders like PML-N’s Rana Sanaullah are willing to speak with PTI despite Imran Khan’s current refusal. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has also reiterated offers for dialogue.
PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan has been tasked with paving the way for negotiations, though concerns persist that Imran Khan may once again block the process. Some PTI MPs are considering group meetings with the jailed leader to persuade him to reconsider.
One lawmaker alleged that unelected individuals with direct or indirect access to Khan are misleading him and could push for mass resignations from the National Assembly — a move they see as harmful.
Differences have also emerged over Khan’s decision not to contest upcoming by-elections, with veteran politicians warning that boycotting would hand their constituencies to rivals.
The pro-dialogue faction is also looking to senior leader Shah Mehmood Qureshi, recently acquitted in three May 9 cases, as a possible bridge-builder once he secures bail in remaining cases.
Sources say the Speaker’s renewed offer follows days of discreet discussions, and a growing number of PTI leaders now believe that confrontation has worsened rather than resolved the party’s political troubles.
