Behind-the-Scenes Negotiations Collapse in the PTI Protest March
In a dramatic turn of events, last-ditch efforts to peacefully resolve the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest march to Islamabad’s D-Chowk have failed, with sources revealing a complex web of negotiations and internal party tensions.
Key Developments in the PTI Protest March
According to Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif, the KP Chief Minister’s aide, intense negotiations were underway on Monday night to persuade the PTI leadership to divert their march to Sangjani, located on the outskirts of Islamabad. Imran Khan reportedly reluctantly agreed to this proposal, with conditions that would lead to:
- Negotiations for his release
- Withdrawal of cases against party leaders
- A peaceful resolution to the ongoing political standoff
Bushra Bibi’s Decisive Role in the PTI Protest March
Sources close to the negotiations paint a picture of Bushra Bibi as the primary disruptor of peace efforts. Key revelations include:
- She unexpectedly joined the protest, contrary to original plans
- Refused to listen to CM Ali Amin Gandapur
- Demanded direct communication with Imran Khan
- Urged protesters to move towards D-Chowk
An insider quoted her as “calling the shots” while CM Gandapur is “playing second fiddle.”
Government’s Perspective on the PTI Protest March
Federal ministers held press conferences accusing the PTI of:
- Breaching the agreement to protest at Sangjani
- Having a “secret leadership” controlling events
- Risking public safety and property
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi explicitly blamed “a woman” (referring to Bushra Bibi) for the escalating situation, suggesting she sabotaged potential negotiations.
Imran Khan’s Controversial Tweet About the PTI Protest March
A tweet from Khan’s official account added another layer of complexity, seemingly contradicting earlier negotiation claims:
- Urged supporters to “fight until the last ball is bowled”
- Thanked overseas Pakistanis for funding the march
- Called for continued protests at D-Chowk
The tweet reignited debates about who is managing Khan’s social media during his imprisonment.
Escalating Tensions in the PTI Protest March
The situation reached a critical point with:
- A vehicle reportedly mowing down Rangers personnel
- An “eyeball-to-eyeball” confrontation at D-Chowk
- Mounting pressure on local PTI leadership
Ongoing Uncertainty in the PTI Protest March
As of Tuesday evening, both the government and PTI are in a state of uncertainty, with:
- The federal government nervously awaiting protesters’ next move
- PTI leaders scrambling to develop a Plan B
- Continued potential for further escalation
The unfolding events highlight the volatile political landscape and the significant role of internal party dynamics in shaping national protests.