ISLAMABAD: Backchannel contacts between the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and authorities have failed to produce a breakthrough over the party’s planned September 27 march towards Islamabad, with a deep trust deficit reportedly remaining the main obstacle, according to sources familiar with the discussions.
The contacts took place amid growing tensions over the proposed mobilisation and focused on possible measures to de-escalate the situation if the PTI agreed to call off the march.
According to sources, authorities sought an assurance that the party would not resort to prolonged sit-ins, road blockades or direct confrontations with law-enforcement agencies during future protests.
In return, officials reportedly indicated that certain concessions concerning PTI founder Imran Khan and his family could be considered.
Possible concessions for Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi
The proposed measures reportedly included shifting Bushra Bibi to Bani Gala, facilitating Khan’s transfer to a hospital for medical treatment and allowing greater access for meetings with him.
However, sources said any such relaxation would be subject to an understanding that the facilities provided to Khan and his wife would not be used for political activity.
Meetings with Khan could be facilitated in accordance with applicable rules, but political mobilisation or political activity from inside prison would not be acceptable, according to the sources.
Despite the discussions, no agreement was reached, with the lack of trust between the two sides continuing to complicate efforts to reduce tensions.
PTI mobilisation expected to focus on KP
Sources familiar with PTI’s plans said the party’s mobilisation for September 27 is expected to be concentrated largely in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), despite the party’s public messaging about a nationwide protest.
PTI workers in Punjab, Sindh and Balochistan have generally been asked to organise protests in their respective areas, where the party faces comparatively greater administrative restrictions and pressure.
Workers in Punjab districts bordering KP, however, have reportedly been told they can coordinate their mobilisation with the KP campaign.
Punjab, Sindh send police contingents to Islamabad ahead of PTI march
Sources also said there was no specific direction for the PTI’s Islamabad organisation to independently organise a large procession from within the federal capital.
The main thrust of the planned march is expected to come from KP, while the exact movement towards Islamabad will depend on the situation on the ground.
PTI maintains September 27 schedule
Despite the reported backchannel contacts, PTI leaders continue to publicly maintain that the September 27 programme will proceed as planned.
KP Chief Minister Sohail Afridi has repeatedly said the date remains unchanged. PTI leaders have also described the march as part of their campaign for the release of Imran Khan and to press for their broader political demands.
The government, meanwhile, has warned that the law will be enforced during the protest as authorities prepare for the planned mobilisation.
Originally published in The News
