Web Desk — Negotiations between Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and the government over the planned protest in Islamabad on November 24 have reached a deadlock, sources reported on Friday. Despite the impasse, PTI, led by incarcerated former Prime Minister Imran Khan, has completed its “final consultations” and is ready to move forward with their protest plans in the capital.

Imran Khan has called on his supporters to march to Islamabad in support of democracy and the judiciary. However, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has criticized the protest, labeling it as “insurrection,” alleging that PTI seeks to destabilize the federal capital.

PTI’s Protest Demands and Setbacks

PTI has outlined four key demands for ending the protests. Meanwhile, Imran Khan’s wife, Bushra Bibi, has stated that the protest date could only be changed if Khan is released from jail. On Thursday, PTI faced a setback when the Islamabad High Court issued a ruling barring any protests or rallies violating a recent law on public gatherings over the weekend, citing the upcoming visit of the Belarusian president.

Despite this, PTI has directed its workers to arrive in Islamabad by November 26, with plans to stage sit-ins once they reach the capital.

PTI Leadership’s Stance on Ongoing Negotiations

During the discussions, Imran Khan’s sister, Aleema Khan, announced that she, along with other PTI members, would join the protest convoy heading to Islamabad. She emphasized that the party remains open to negotiations, even during the protest.

PTI’s Raoof Hasan reassured the public that talks are ongoing, stating in an interview with Geo News that the party has been engaging with those “above Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi.” He added that PTI leadership had visited Khan in jail but were unable to meet him. “We will try again,” he said, underscoring the ongoing efforts to break the deadlock.

PTI’s Lawyer Confirms Protest Plans

PTI lawyer Faisal Chaudhry confirmed that the protest on November 24 would proceed as planned, despite the ongoing negotiations. The deadlock between the PTI and the government has persisted since Wednesday evening, primarily due to rising tensions and what PTI describes as “unreasonable demands” from the government.

PTI Announces Leadership for Protest Convoys

In preparation for the planned protest, PTI has released a list of leaders designated to head various convoys. From Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur and Shahid Khatak will lead the convoy, while PTI MNA Zartaj Gul will lead the rally from southern Punjab. In Punjab, Sher Afzal Marwat, Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi, Sanam Javed, and Hamad Azhar will lead the charge, while Haleem Adil Sheikh and Alamgir Khan will head the convoy from Sindh.

Leaders from Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, including Azam Swati, will also lead protests, while Barrister Gohar, Shandana Gulzar, Latif Khosa, Omar Ayub, and Shibli Faraz will lead the Islamabad convoy.

Road Blockages and Traffic Disruptions in Muridke

Ahead of the PTI protest, police in Muridke have blocked key roads. Trucks have been positioned near Khori Sadhu Ki to close off the GT Road, causing significant disruptions for travelers. Traffic has come to a standstill due to the barriers, leaving commuters frustrated and unable to find alternative routes. The lack of public transport on the roads is also becoming increasingly apparent as a result of the ongoing protest preparations.

Conclusion

The ongoing standoff between PTI and the government highlights the political tension leading up to the November 24 protest. While the protest plans continue to move forward, the deadlock in negotiations remains unresolved. As PTI prepares for the protest and leaders head towards Islamabad, the situation in the capital city is expected to intensify, with potential repercussions for both the party and the government.