PML-N leader Javed Latif on Monday expressed his disapproval towards the ongoing negotiations between the coalition government and the PTI, saying that talks should never be held with “terrorists” and those who “want to destroy national institutions”.
The statement from the ruling party’s legislator comes at a crucial time when the federal coalition and the opposition are holding a formal dialogue to break the long-time deadlock over the timing of elections in the country.
Talks between the government and the PTI commenced last week on the advice of the Supreme Court. After two rounds of talks, the parties are now expected to hold the final round of negotiations tomorrow (Tuesday).
However, chances that the dialogue will yield positive results are starting to look “very slim” as PTI Chairman Imran Khan has demanded the dissolution of the National Assembly by May 14 to pave the way for a successful outcome of talks.
On the other hand, the government has termed Imran’s ultimatum “impracticable” and asked him to be more flexible for the success of this dialogue between the two sides.
The PML-N has also warned that the PTI will be the “ultimate loser” if the negotiations failed — the general elections may be “delayed for a year under a constitutional provision”.
Commenting on the ongoing dialogue in a media talk in Lahore today, Latif questioned the rationale of talks with those calling the government “Mir Jafer and Mir Sadiq”.
“I think there are no negotiations [possible] and talks can never be held with terrorists. We should never hold negotiations with the beneficiaries of the global powers,” alleged the PML-N leader.
Latif went on to say that dialogue could never be held with a person who “is spreading anarchy in the country, especially at a time when Pakistan’s economy is stabilising and the country is progressing without IMF’s aid”.
He argued that such talks would equate to putting Pakistan’s security at risk. “By doing so, you will also compromise on Pakistan’s growth,” Latif added.
The lawmaker urged “individuals in institutions” to take responsibility for “producing” a person like Imran and for the consequences of their actions.
“If this trend continues, Pakistan’s future looks bleak and uncertain,” he added.
The PML-N leader further stated that his party would not allow the forthcoming elections to take place without the participation of PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif.
He noted that Imran could be taken to the field, but only after justice had been served.
