PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Khan has said the federal government still has an opportunity to revive political dialogue with the opposition party and resolve outstanding differences through negotiations.
Speaking to journalists in Mingora, Gohar said the PTI remained willing to engage in talks with the government, provided there was flexibility from the federal side.
He said negotiations could still resume if a meeting with PTI founder Imran Khan was held, adding that the current deadlock could be overcome through meaningful engagement.
Gohar attributed the stalled talks to what he described as the federal government’s rigid approach, saying the government had failed to show sufficient flexibility during previous negotiations.
He also rejected suggestions that the impasse was linked to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, saying the provincial government had no role in the breakdown between the PTI and the federal administration.
The PTI chairman said the party’s provincial government was taking steps to combat terrorism and improve security across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He, however, criticised the federal government for what he called its lack of an effective role in addressing militancy in the province.
Gohar also questioned the release of funds announced by the federal government for counterterrorism and security efforts in KP. He said Islamabad had pledged Rs10 billion for the purpose, but claimed that none of the announced amount had been received by the provincial government.
He reiterated that the PTI was prepared to pursue political dialogue but said meaningful negotiations would require the federal government to demonstrate flexibility and address the party’s concerns.
Gohar was visiting Swat as part of the PTI’s political activities in the province and also discussed the prevailing security situation with the media.
Meanwhile, traders and representatives of various organisations from the 10 districts of Malakand Division have announced plans to block the Swat Motorway on Tuesday, Oct 7, in protest against the imposition of taxes in the region.
The Malakand Division Traders Federation said protesters would block the motorway at Chakdara using shipping containers. Organisers have not specified how long the road closure would continue.
According to organisers, protest rallies from across Malakand Division will converge at the Chakdara interchange by 10am, where participants will demonstrate against the government’s tax measures.
The protest comes amid growing opposition from traders and other sections of society to the proposed taxation in the region.
The business community has called for the withdrawal of the taxes, maintaining that Malakand has historically enjoyed tax exemptions. Traders have warned of further street protests if their demands are not addressed.
