Adviser to the Prime Minister on Political and Public Affairs Rana Sanaullah stated on Wednesday that discussions between the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and the government have been temporarily halted due to the absence of National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, who is currently abroad. Sanaullah assured that talks would resume once Sadiq returns to Pakistan.
Speaking at a press conference, Sanaullah criticized PTI for allegedly spreading misinformation on social media, accusing the party of promoting a “narrative of lies.” He specifically addressed claims by PTI about casualties during the November 26 protest and alleged mistreatment of former Prime Minister Imran Khan in Rawalpindi’s Central Jail.
The adviser dismissed PTI’s social media posts, including one featuring a Palestinian ambulance, as baseless propaganda. He also accused Aleema Khan, Imran Khan’s sister, of making unfounded claims about an alleged poisoning plot against her brother while he is in custody, citing a leaked video where she discussed political strategies instead.
Sanaullah reiterated that Imran Khan was receiving all jail facilities in accordance with the manual and accused PTI of conspiring to destabilize the country and its institutions. He added that the party was unlikely to provide written demands in the ongoing negotiations.
Responding to queries, the adviser clarified that the £190 million Al-Qadir Trust corruption case involving Imran Khan and his wife was unrelated to the dialogue process. He emphasized the importance of national dialogue to ease political tensions.
Separately, NA Speaker Ayaz Sadiq expressed regret over PTI’s criticism of his role in facilitating dialogue. Sadiq clarified that arranging meetings with the incarcerated PTI chairman was neither his responsibility nor part of his mandate.
