PTI Confirms Backchannel Engagement with Establishment, Outlines Negotiation Strategy: Raoof Hasan

Islamabad – Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) senior leader and former Information Secretary Raoof Hasan has confirmed that the party is in contact with the establishment and has outlined a strategy for potential negotiations. Speaking on Express News program Center Stage, Hasan emphasized that any dialogue with the establishment should be kept through a backchannel to avoid creating negative public perceptions.
“Negotiations are essential for the country’s betterment, but they must be discreet,” said Hasan. “We are not negotiating for any deal; our aim is free and fair elections.”
He stated that no individual within PTI, including Senator Azam Swati, is authorized to hold talks without the party’s consent. “We have prepared our outline, and if talks with the establishment are to take place, they should remain confidential. Publicizing such matters sends the wrong message,” he added.
Hasan reiterated PTI’s willingness to engage in constructive dialogue. “We welcome negotiations and are already engaged. We have a government in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and for the state to move forward, fundamental principles must be agreed upon, which will guide our negotiations.”
Clarifying PTI’s stance, he said, “We are not seeking a deal. We want transparent elections, and the mandate should be respected.”
Addressing concerns about political instability, Hasan warned that no investor would be willing to invest under current conditions. “Political stability is essential for economic progress,” he said.
Regarding the objections from Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI), Hasan noted that the core issue is the purpose of the talks. “If the objective is free and fair elections, no party should oppose it. Objections arise when negotiations are perceived as personal deals,” he said.
He revealed that JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman has asked for time until April 15 to make a decision. “We are hopeful, but ultimately the decision lies with Maulana Fazlur Rehman. Once we have his response, we will proceed with organizing the opposition alliance’s leadership and make further decisions,” Hasan concluded.