Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has invited Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly Mehmood Achakzai for direct talks. The move came shortly after the opposition announced its decision to extend the timeline of its planned long march.
According to a source close to the prime minister, the invitation was aimed at promoting political stability and dialogue. However, no response had been received from the opposition leader at the time of reporting.
Opposition Confirms Invitation
A spokesperson for Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf confirmed that Mehmood Achakzai had received the prime minister’s invitation. Nevertheless, the opposition had not yet announced its position regarding the proposed talks.
This is not the first time Prime Minister Shehbaz has approached the opposition leader. Earlier this month, on September 11, he invited Achakzai for consultations regarding the appointment of a new Chief Election Commissioner.
The prime minister is currently in the United States to attend the United Nations General Assembly. He is expected to return to Pakistan within the next few days.
CEC Appointment Also Under Discussion
Before the prime minister’s earlier invitation, National Assembly Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq had urged both leaders to hold consultations on the appointment of the new Chief Election Commissioner. The speaker emphasized the importance of consensus in the constitutional process.
Under Article 213(2A) of the Constitution, the prime minister must consult the opposition leader regarding the appointment. Following consultations, three names are forwarded to a parliamentary committee for consideration.
The committee then reviews the nominees and confirms one candidate for the position. Therefore, discussions between the government and opposition remain an important constitutional requirement.
The latest invitation for direct talks comes amid ongoing political developments and efforts to maintain dialogue between both sides.
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