Opposition Leader Stalls Talks With Shehbaz Sharif Over Imran Khan
Opposition Leader Mahmood Khan Achakzai has blocked negotiations with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, demanding a meeting with imprisoned PTI founder Imran Khan as a prerequisite.
A political deadlock has emerged between the government of Pakistan and the opposition over the role of imprisoned PTI founder Imran Khan. Mahmood Khan Achakzai, the Opposition Leader in the National Assembly, has stalled proposed meetings with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, asserting that dialogue is impossible without first consulting Khan and securing the release of Khan's sisters.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif rejected these demands, arguing that a convicted individual cannot participate in constitutional decision-making. This impasse has delayed mandatory consultations required to appoint a new chief election commissioner and two members of the Election Commission of Pakistan. Despite two formal letters from the prime minister, Achakzai has avoided meetings at Parliament House and the Prime Minister's Office, stating he does not recognize the current government.
The standoff coincides with escalating tensions in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. While PTI Secretary General Salman Akram Raja authorized Achakzai and Allama Raja Nasir Abbas to negotiate, the party simultaneously launched a long march toward Peshawar led by Chief Minister Sohail Afridi. Achakzai has warned that any attempt to impose governor's rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa would trigger nationwide protests and road blockages.
