Islamabad: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has announced that it will not engage in any clashes or violent activities on the first anniversary of the February 8 general elections.
PTI’s General Secretary, Salman Akram Raja, stated that only a rally will be held in Swabi, while protests will take place at the tehsil and union council levels. He emphasized that PTI has no plans for confrontation or chaos on this occasion.
Regarding Jamiat Ulama-e-Islam (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, Salman Akram Raja expressed his belief that the Maulana would stand with the people. However, he stressed that PTI remains firm on its principles in support of the Constitution and the judiciary, stating, “Whoever wishes to stand with us may do so; otherwise, PTI will continue its struggle alone.”
It is noteworthy that PTI had submitted a request to hold a rally at Minar-e-Pakistan on February 8, but the Deputy Commissioner rejected the request and denied permission for the gathering.
Sources indicate that multiple events, including a cricket match, an international speaker conference, and the commencement of the Lahore Horse & Cattle Show, are scheduled for February 8. Thousands of security personnel are being deployed in Lahore due to these events.
Meanwhile, Speaker of the National Assembly, Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, has once again extended an offer for negotiations with PTI. He revealed that communication with PTI has not been completely severed and that discussions are still ongoing.
During an informal conversation with journalists in Lahore, Ayaz Sadiq stated that the government has never closed the doors for dialogue with PTI. He added that the negotiation committee formed earlier had not been dissolved, but PTI’s internal approval is required before any talks can proceed. “Imran Khan is a tough person,” he remarked, “so once PTI finalizes its internal decision, they can approach us for negotiations.”
