Govt ‘hands over’ response to PTI demands to NA speaker
Speaker Ayaz Sadiq met the PTI leaders in Parliament House’s cafeteria on Wednesday including newly elected Chairman Public Accounts Committee Junaid Akbar and Atif Khan.
People’s Party’s MNA Nafeesa Shah was also present during the meeting.
Replying to a question, Ayaz Sadiq said, “Only the government, its allies and the opposition could reply over it, I am unconcerned. As Speaker it is my responsibility to have good relations with each member,” he added.
The government formally responded to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s demands, addressing key issues such as the release of political prisoners, including PTI founder Imran Khan, and the formation of a judicial commission as demanded by the party.
In its response, sent to the National Assembly speaker, the government suggested the formation of a special or parliamentary committee as an alternative to a judicial commission.
The government’s response highlighted constitutional and legal points, explaining the reasons why a judicial commission could not be formed. It also proposed granting the status of a parliamentary committee to the existing committee headed by Speaker Ayaz Sadiq.
The government cited legal and judicial decisions regarding the PTI’s demand for the release of its founder, Imran Khan, and other prisoners, stating that it would not object to bail or release if granted by the courts.
The government has also demanded that the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf provide a list of missing persons. However, the NA speaker or committee members have decided not to make the government’s response public at this stage. If the PTI returns to the negotiation table, the response will be presented in the committee for further discussion.
