Backchannel Talks
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder and former prime minister Imran Khan’s latest post on X (formerly Twitter), criticizing the military’s top leadership, has once again jeopardized both formal dialogue and backchannel negotiations between the PTI and the government, as well as the establishment.
Despite repeated advice from his party and allies, including during a recent meeting between PTI leaders and Army Chief General Asim Munir, Khan has persisted with his critical social media statements, creating significant hurdles for the reconciliation process.
A senior PTI leader, speaking anonymously, lamented the impact of Khan’s actions on the progress made through backchannel efforts. “This [Imran Khan’s social media statements] is the biggest hurdle in moving forward,” the leader remarked.
During a meeting at Adiala Jail, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur reportedly urged Khan to avoid targeting the army and its leadership, emphasizing the importance of maintaining momentum in the backchannel dialogue.
PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar made a similar request, warning that such statements could undermine the fragile progress achieved so far. However, Khan once again posted an aggressive message on Friday, frustrating party leaders and raising doubts about the continuation of negotiations.
In his latest post, Khan compared the current situation to the events of 1971, citing the Hamoodur Rahman Commission report and accusing the current leadership of pushing the country toward destruction for personal gain. His remarks followed his conviction in a £190 million case, further intensifying tensions.
The PTI’s second-tier leadership has expressed growing concern about the negative impact of Khan’s uncompromising stance on dialogue with the establishment.
While a recent breakthrough in backchannel talks raised hopes of relief for the party, Khan’s statements have sown doubt about the willingness of the establishment to proceed.
Efforts have been made to bring control of Khan’s and the PTI’s social media accounts back to Pakistan from overseas, where party insiders allege these accounts are sometimes misused to exaggerate Khan’s views. However, Khan has yet to act on these suggestions.
The PTI leadership remains hopeful for the resumption of backchannel talks but recognizes that continued aggressive rhetoric from Khan could irreparably harm the party’s standing and its chances of reaching an agreement with the government and military establishment.
