Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Vice Chairman Shah Mehmood Qureshi has expressed dissatisfaction with the internal decision-making process within his party, emphasising that his viewpoint must be considered.
In an informal conversation with the media at Adiala Jail, Qureshi highlighted the importance of consultation within PTI and stressed the urgency of political dialogue to restore stability in the country.
“I have been in politics for 40 years, serving at the municipal, provincial, and federal levels. My point of view deserves to be heard within the party,” Qureshi said.
He reiterated that consultation is a cornerstone of political decision-making and emphasised that he had advised the PTI founder to postpone the civil disobedience movement. "Consultation is a Sunnah, the government should start negotiations. The country needs political stability more than ever today," he stressed.
Qureshi also pointed out that the PTI had formed a negotiation committee at the government’s request, and now it was time for the government to demonstrate seriousness in addressing PTI’s demands. “Political negotiations should begin without delay to address the lack of trust and bring political stability,” he remarked.
Qureshi accused the government of targeting him for political revenge. Referring to the violent events of May 9, 2023, he clarified, “I was in Karachi on that day, not Rawalpindi.” He called on the authorities to seek his and the prosecution's oath under Section 16 of the Anti-Terrorism Act to verify his claim.
Qureshi shared that senior lawyer Salman Akram Raja attempted to meet him at Kot Lakhpat Jail but was unable to do so as Qureshi was transferred to Rawalpindi. He emphasised the challenges he faces while being unfairly targeted.
“Terrorism is increasing in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and our soldiers are being martyred daily. In Balochistan, foreign hands are fuelling the insurgency,” he alleged, adding that these issues necessitate immediate action to rebuild trust.
He further stated, “When it comes to negotiations, we should also give the government time. Progress in talks would be a positive step forward.”
The former minister revealed that the final decision to postpone the civil disobedience movement rests with Imran Khan. "Now if there is progress in the talks, it will be a good thing. The PTI founder had been requested to give the government time so that the seriousness can be assessed," he disclosed.
“We have taken steps to facilitate dialogue; now it is up to the government to reciprocate with seriousness. The country’s stability is paramount,” he concluded.
