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PTI Denies Formal Talks; Back-Channel Discussions Allegedly Underway Amid Internal Confusion
PTI denies any official talks with govt or establishment, but sources reveal secret back-channel efforts led by Imran Khan. Mixed reactions within PTI as public statements contradict private moves.
ND
by News Desk
2025-05-19
PTI Denies Formal Talks; Back-Channel Discussions Allegedly Underway Amid Internal Confusion

Despite circulating rumors in political circles about possible concessions or formal talks between Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and the government or establishment, the party leadership has firmly denied any official negotiations.

Sources reveal that it is actually PTI leadership quietly exploring back-channel talks with the establishment and government, preferring secrecy to avoid backlash from supporters and critics alike. Publicly, PTI maintains a firm stance against engaging in dialogue, with no formal talks yet initiated.

A notable incident last week saw PTI Chairman Gauhar Ali Khan meeting Imran Khan in Adiala Jail alongside other lawyers. During the meeting, Imran Khan’s wife, Bushra Bibi, asked the lawyers to leave so she could speak privately with Imran Khan and Gauhar Ali Khan. Though details remain confidential, Gauhar Ali Khan later indicated that Imran Khan authorized moving forward with discreet back-channel talks and expressed willingness to meet a representative from the establishment.

However, this revelation has caused confusion and division within PTI ranks. Imran Khan’s sister, Aleema Khan, publicly denied that the former prime minister has agreed to any talks, adding to internal uncertainty.

Efforts are reportedly underway by PTI leaders to convene another meeting with Imran Khan to clarify the party’s position on secret negotiations and to resolve the contradictory messages between public statements and private discussions.

PTI Information Secretary Sheikh Waqas Akram emphasized that currently, no talks or behind-the-scenes contacts with the government or establishment are ongoing. He also noted that Imran Khan’s meetings in jail are controlled by external permissions, limiting his control over who can meet him.

The situation highlights the delicate balancing act PTI faces between maintaining a tough public posture and exploring pragmatic dialogue to address the political stalemate.

 
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PTI

ImranKhan

PakistanPolitics

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