Former Chief Minister of Punjab, Shehbaz Sharif, testified to a probe commission, stating that the Faizabad sit-in took authorities by surprise. He revealed instructions were issued to local authorities to support Islamabad’s administration during the protest. He also mentioned plans to withdraw cases against TLP members as part of an agreement.
The commission reported conflicting views on whether the sit-in aimed to destabilize the government. Challenges in obtaining records and administrative issues were noted, including delays in providing records by the Home Ministry.
Former Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi chaired a meeting to resume talks with protesters, with retired General Faiz Hameed tasked to negotiate. The inquiry commission cleared former ISI chief Faiz Hameed of involvement. Ex-PEMRA chief Absar Alam alleged pressure from Faiz Hameed during the sit-in, stating demands to take action against journalists were unmet. The commission stated the agreement had approval from top military and government officials.
The sit-in was organized by TLP in November 2017 against amendments in the Election Bill 2017, resulting in the dismissal of the Law Minister Zahid Hamid.
