Backchannel talks between Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders and government officials have failed to produce a breakthrough as differences remain unresolved over the party’s planned September 27 protest and its future protest strategy.
According to sources familiar with the discussions, a major focus of the contacts was whether the political situation could be eased if PTI agreed to call off its September 27 protest. Authorities also reportedly sought assurances that the party would not pursue prolonged sit-ins, road blockades or direct confrontations with law-enforcement agencies during future protests.
Sources said the authorities indicated that such assurances could create room for concessions or relaxation in certain matters concerning PTI founder Imran Khan and his family. The issues reportedly discussed included the possibility of shifting Bushra Bibi to Bani Gala, arrangements for moving Imran Khan to a hospital for medical treatment and greater facilitation of meetings with him.
However, any such facilities were reportedly linked to an understanding that they would not be used for political mobilisation. Meetings with Imran Khan could be facilitated under applicable rules, but political activity or mobilisation from inside prison would not be acceptable, according to sources.
Despite the backchannel contacts, the two sides failed to reach an agreement. A persistent trust deficit reportedly remained one of the main obstacles to progress.
The discussions come as PTI continues to maintain its call for a September 27 protest and march towards Islamabad. Recent developments also suggest that the party’s practical mobilisation strategy may be more heavily focused on Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, despite public statements indicating the possibility of wider nationwide participation.
According to PTI sources, the main protest activity is expected to originate from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The development could shape the scale and direction of the planned mobilisation as the September 27 date approaches.
With no agreement reached through the reported backchannel contacts, tensions between PTI and the government remain unresolved, while both sides continue to assess their positions ahead of the planned protest.
