ISLAMABAD: Backchannel efforts have improved the chances of dialogue between the government and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), with a majority of PTI lawmakers — including some recently convicted — now in favour of initiating formal talks.
According to sources, National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq has been quietly mediating between both sides. From the government’s camp, figures such as PML-N’s Rana Sanaullah are reportedly open to engaging PTI leaders, despite PTI founder Imran Khan’s continued reluctance to speak directly with government representatives. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has repeatedly extended offers for dialogue, and PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan has been assigned to create conditions for meaningful negotiations.
Concerns persist, however, that Khan might again obstruct the process. PTI lawmakers are now considering meeting him in small groups to convince him to soften his stance. One party legislator accused certain unelected advisers with access to Khan of feeding him misleading advice — including calls for en bloc resignations from the National Assembly — a move many fear could further weaken the party.
Disagreements have also emerged over Khan’s directive not to contest upcoming by-elections for seats vacated due to disqualification or conviction of PTI MPs. Veteran politicians within the party warn that boycotting would hand these constituencies to political rivals without a fight.
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The pro-dialogue faction within PTI is also looking to senior leader Shah Mehmood Qureshi, recently acquitted in three May 9-related cases and expected to secure bail in others within months. They believe his political experience could help steer the party toward constructive engagement.
Sources say Speaker Sadiq’s renewed mediation offer follows days of quiet consultations with both camps. A growing segment of PTI leadership now believes that prolonged confrontation and street agitation have harmed the party’s position rather than strengthened it.