Backchannel talks exclude Imran Khan, focus on Bushra

ISLAMABAD: Backchannel contacts between Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and the authorities are continuing, with discussions reportedly progressing within a clearly defined scope. However, sources familiar with the developments say there is currently no room for negotiations over relief for former prime minister Imran Khan or any change in the political setup in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

The latest contacts have reportedly helped secure the release of two of Imran Khan’s sisters, opening a new channel of communication between the opposition party and the authorities. However, sources say the emerging understanding does not indicate any change in the authorities’ position on the two major political issues.

According to people familiar with the discussions, providing relief to Imran Khan or altering the existing political arrangement in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is not under consideration at this stage. This also rules out any proposal regarding the restoration of Sohail Afridi as chief minister through the ongoing backchannel process.

Sources stressed that the recent involvement of Imran Khan’s family members in the contacts should not be interpreted as a willingness by the authorities to reconsider their position on these matters. Any possible understanding will have to remain within limits that do not affect Imran Khan’s political and legal status or the provincial government’s existing position in KP.

However, the situation surrounding Imran Khan’s wife, Bushra Bibi, is reportedly different. Sources said her legal cases and possible relief measures could be discussed as part of the ongoing contacts.

One option reportedly under consideration is shifting Bushra Bibi to Bani Gala. However, when asked whether Imran Khan could also be transferred there, sources familiar with the discussions ruled out the possibility, saying no such proposal was being considered, at least for now.

A source described Bushra Bibi’s case as separate from that of her husband, adding that there was currently no similar option available for Imran Khan.

The recent involvement of Imran Khan’s sisters is being viewed as a significant development amid already strained relations between PTI and the authorities. Sources said the sisters had reportedly given assurances that they would avoid political activities that could increase tensions and would refrain from targeting the military leadership or the establishment through criticism.

According to the sources, the understanding is that they would not encourage confrontation or use their position to further escalate the political situation.

This development has created some room for communication on family-related matters and other limited issues. However, it has not changed the authorities’ position on the two central political questions concerning Imran Khan and the PTI-led provincial government in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.