KARACHI: In yet another overture to the powers that be from the embattled party, PTI leader Arif Alvi said that Imran Khan is willing to talk, but only to quarters “who could offer something”, as dialogue with those who had come into power through ‘Form 47s’ would be a fruitless exercise.
In a quick interaction with reporters during an appearance at a PTI protest camp outside the Karachi Press Club, the former president also downplayed comparisons of the current political situation with the events preceding the fall of Dhaka, saying that “it’s never about the whole institution but a few individuals”.
In the same breath, however, he stressed the need to move quickly, saying that the prevailing situation was “pushing everyone towards a dead-end”, which could encourage someone to take the wrong decision that could set off a powder keg.
While being critical of the military’s role in politics, he said that it was the only stakeholder with whom meaningful dialogue was possible.
“We never invited the military to intervene in politics,” he said in response to a question. “But Imran Khan wants to talk to those who have the power to decide. Do you feel that those who have come to power through Form 47s have anything to offer? Holding talks with them would be fruitless.
“Those who want to unite and struggle for the restoration and supremacy of the Constitution should do that. But talks should only be held with those who can offer something and bring something credible to the table,” Dr Alvi said.
When asked if such an exercise would further weaken the “broken political system”, he said all this was being done in an effort “to fix the same broken political system”.
Earlier, while speaking to protesting party workers, he said: “For the last two years, Imran Khan has been calling for talks because he believes that dialogue should be held. But [on such proposals] we are insulted.
“If you don’t want to talk due to your ego and anger, it’s your choice. It was Imran Khan who sacrificed his ego and always called for dialogue. But if these talks aren’t held, it would further push everyone to a dead end.”
