ISLAMABAD: Former interior minister Sheikh Rasheed said the former ruling party PTI is still in talks with the establishment while ex-premier Imran Khan is ‘ready to sit’ with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to sort out early elections.
In back to back interviews on Monday, the seasoned politician revealed that he didn’t participate in earlier negotiations, while former Planning Minister Asad Umar and Defence Minister Parvez Khattak were front runners of the former ruling party.
He continued saying that he distanced himself from negotiations as he has deep relations with the establishment and on the other hand, he cannot oppose the PTI chief during the negotiations.
Rasheed said it’s time when ‘powerful quarters’ must assure their part in the free and fair election process. He also disclosed that the PTI chief does not want to shake hands with Sharif’s coalition government, adding there can be negotiations about elections if the establishment guarantees.
He said that cricketer turned politician previously maintained not to negotiate with ‘corrupt leaders’ like the incumbent premier on any issue.
The seasoned politician admitted that something wrong happened during the Imran Khan-led government as key allies including MQM and Balochistan Awami Party BAP choose to stand with a joint opposition alliance.
In another interview, the Awami Muslim League chief said Khan already announced a long march in the federal capital, saying that option would lead to nothing other than civil war.
He further cleared the air on rumours about army takeover, saying the long march was not aimed at anything but the announcement of early polls.
At one time in his interview, he said there were some issues that amplified the existing difference between the establishment and PTI Chief, however, he denied mentioning a specific one.
Khan’s ouster helped PTI in building a strong narrative in coming elections, he said, adding former ruling party might lose elections if they go to the next polls without any problem.
Commenting about his priorities, Rashid said he already informed the army that he has decided to side with Imran Khan. Adding, he considers the army a crucial part of Pakistan.
He also cautioned all stakeholders that the PTI chief is not going to withdraw his demand for the early elections.
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