The federal government has decided that it will not engage in negotiations with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) until the court delivers its verdict in the £190 million corruption case involving Imran Khan. This decision has deepened the already existing divisions within PTI over how to approach potential talks, further dimming the prospects for dialogue between the two sides.

Sources indicate that internal rifts within PTI are intensifying as the party remains divided on whether to pursue negotiations with the government. Factions within PTI have conflicting strategies: one camp favours bypassing political parties to directly approach influential institutions, while another believes coalition parties must be included in any talks. Others argue that any negotiation plan should be finalised after consulting the party’s jailed chairman, Imran Khan, in Adiala Jail.

Insiders reveal that even Imran Khan and key PTI figures, such as Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s former Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, differ in their expectations of the government’s response. While Khan remains sceptical about the government’s willingness to engage sincerely, Gandapur is optimistic that PTI’s demands, including his release, will eventually be met.

At a recent meeting with Gandapur in Adiala Jail, Khan reportedly urged patience, advising the party to wait until the government responds to PTI’s negotiation proposal by week’s end. If the government refuses, PTI plans to escalate pressure through a civil disobedience campaign. However, Khan cautioned that any talks should avoid giving the impression that PTI is desperate for dialogue.

Political analysts believe the government is intentionally delaying talks to maintain leverage over PTI. They predict that negotiations will only begin after the £190 million case verdict is issued, potentially leaving Khan with fewer options. By keeping the former prime minister under legal pressure, the coalition government aims to limit PTI’s ability to make sweeping demands.

Both PTI and government leaders have publicly maintained rigid positions, fostering the perception that talks are unlikely. Analysts argue, however, that eventual dialogue is inevitable, especially given the country’s fragile economic condition. Political stability, they say, is essential for ensuring economic recovery and preventing further instability.

The path to meaningful negotiations remains fraught with challenges, but mutual tolerance and compromise will be key to resolving the current political stalemate.