POLITICS & POLICY MAKING

Asad Qaiser Denies Backdoor Talks with Govt, Says No Secret Negotiations Underway

Asad Qaiser denies reports of backdoor talks with the govt, saying no secret negotiations are underway. He adds that PTI will follow procedure on Sher Afzal Marwat’s expulsion.
2025-02-19
Asad Qaiser Denies Backdoor Talks with Govt, Says No Secret Negotiations Underway

Senior PTI leader and former Speaker National Assembly Asad Qaiser has refuted claims of backdoor talks with the federal government, emphasizing that no secret negotiations are taking place.

Speaking to reporters, Qaiser clarified that while the government was given an opportunity for dialogue, it failed to demonstrate any seriousness in addressing PTI’s concerns. As a result, he said, there have been no formal or informal talks so far.

“No backdoor talks are taking place with anyone, and no backdoor channel is being used for negotiations,” he asserted.

Sher Afzal Marwat’s Expulsion

Addressing the controversy surrounding Sher Afzal Marwat’s expulsion from PTI, Qaiser maintained that the party would handle the matter in accordance with internal procedures. Marwat, a prominent PTI lawyer and leader, has recently been at the center of internal party disputes, leading to speculation about his future within PTI.

Political Uncertainty and Future of Talks

The denial of backdoor negotiations comes amid increasing political tensions in Pakistan, with PTI repeatedly accusing the government of election rigging and political victimization. While PTI remains open to discussions, Qaiser’s statement suggests that no immediate breakthrough is expected.

As the political landscape continues to evolve, it remains to be seen whether formal negotiations between the opposition and the government will take place in the near future.