The ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) demanded on Saturday that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) cease all anti-state activities as a condition for a political ceasefire and the resumption of negotiations.
PML-N has also emphasised that the PTI form an authorised and empowered negotiating committee before any formal dialogue can take place. Speaking exclusively to Samaa TV, the PML-N’s parliamentary leader in the Senate, Senator Irfan Siddiqui, outlined the party’s position on negotiations with PTI.
“If PTI wants a ceasefire, it must stop all actions against the state,” said Senator Siddiqui.
“A ceasefire only occurs when both sides are firing – but there has been no fire from our side. All attacks are coming from PTI.”
He criticised PTI for its conduct, stating: “PTI was responsible for the events of May 9. They wrote to the IMF asking it not to release funds to Pakistan. They incited the European Parliament and US Congressmen against the country and have launched vile campaigns against state institutions on social media.”
“If PTI wants peace, it must end these activities immediately,” he added. Senator Siddiqui emphasised that PML-N is not opposed to dialogue: “The doors to negotiations are not closed. PTI should come forward with a serious agenda and a credible team. Problems must be resolved through dialogue.”
He clarified that the prime minister had extended an open offer for talks: “We did not send any secret emissaries. We don’t believe in backchannel diplomacy.”
“It was PTI that withdrew from talks midway. They had initially approached the Speaker, agreed on an agenda, and initiated dialogue themselves.”
On PTI’s internal decision-making, Senator Siddiqui said: “The problem is that no one in PTI has the authority to negotiate. While a chairman was appointed, all decisions ultimately rest with the PTI founder.”
“They insist on meeting the founder as a precondition for progress in talks. Each group returns with new instructions from him – that’s not how negotiations work.”
He said, “If PTI truly wants meaningful dialogue, our doors are open. But if their intention is mere political theatre and to walk away midway, no solution can be reached.”
“There is no obstacle from the government’s side. The lack of unity within PTI’s leadership is the real issue in this matter,” Siddiqui maintained.
