Secret Talks Between PTI and Govt Before Islamabad Rally Postponement

The federal government held secret discussions with PTI leaders, including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's CM Ali Amin Gandapur, before the postponement of a public gathering in Islamabad. Despite Gandapur's resistance, the event was rescheduled at Imran Khan's direction. No recent meetings occurred between Gandapur and Khan.

In the wake of the postponement of a highly anticipated public gathering in Islamabad on August 22, sources have revealed that secret discussions occurred between the federal government and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). According to ARY News, the talks involved Ali Amin Gandapur, the chief minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Sources claim Gandapur initially rejected requests to delay the PTI event. Subsequently, connections were established with senior PTI members Azam Swati and Barrister Gohar Ali, underlining the founder's concerns. Despite significant pressure, Gandapur refused to alter the schedule, even declining to review Imran Khan's audio and video messages.

Reports from ARY News indicate that Gandapur set conditions, insisting on Imran Khan's release or a video call before reconsidering the gathering's timing. Furthermore, Gandapur hasn't met with Khan for over 25 days and emphasized he lacks the authority to postpone the event, acknowledging that only directives from Khan will be followed.

The PTI officially deferred the Islamabad power show set for August 22 in Tarnol after the local administration revoked the No Objection Certificate (NOC) for the event. The announcement came from PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, who cited party founder Imran Khan's instructions.

(With inputs from agencies.)