Adviser to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs, Rana Sanaullah, revealed that the federal government and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) are engaged in confidential discussions regarding the party’s planned protest march towards Islamabad on October 4. He confirmed that these off-the-record talks involve senior PTI leaders and are currently underway.
The PTI had previously postponed its long march, initially scheduled for September 27, to October 4. The protest is intended to demand the release of the party’s imprisoned founding chairman, Imran Khan, and to call for the restoration of constitutional supremacy, the party.
Speaking on a morning television program, Sanaullah stated that security arrangements have been put in place to prevent participants of the long march from entering Islamabad if the PTI leadership does not cancel the planned protest. He also criticized any provincial government-led march towards the capital, labeling it a breach of constitutional and legal norms.
As a senior member of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), Sanaullah mentioned that the Constitution outlines a formal procedure for imposing governor’s rule, which remains a consideration in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He emphasized that any final decision would require adherence to constitutional processes and parliamentary approval.
Regarding the influence of social media on PTI’s strategies, Sanaullah remarked that individuals active on social media platforms are significantly shaping the party’s direction. He also highlighted that PML-N President Nawaz Sharif continues to provide strategic guidance to the party, with his opinions and approvals sought on major issues.
Furthermore, Sanaullah clarified that decisions related to provincial matters rest with the parliament. When such issues arise in the parliamentary forum, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will articulate the government’s stance. He added that Nawaz Sharif will also express his views when the matter is discussed in the appropriate parliamentary setting.
