The National Dialogue Committee (NDC) has formally contacted Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, appealing for the immediate release on parole of senior Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders currently detained in Kot Lakhpat Jail. This committee was formed by a group of former PTI leaders to advance the process of political reconciliation.
According to the committee’s stance, the release of these leaders is not only essential for leading the proposed dialogue process but will also ensure the credibility and effectiveness of the negotiations. In a letter sent to the Prime Minister on December 23, the committee described the offer for talks with the opposition, particularly PTI, as a crucial and golden opportunity in the context of the country’s situation, which could lead to a resolution of the expanding political, economic, and institutional crises facing the nation.
A notable aspect of the letter is that it does not mention PTI founder Imran Khan. Instead, the emphasis is placed on the fact that the senior party leadership outside Adiala Jail can play an effective role in initiating and sustaining the dialogue process.
The most significant demand in the correspondence pertains to the release of high-profile PTI leaders imprisoned in Kot Lakhpat Jail, including Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Dr. Yasmin Rashid, Umar Sarfraz Cheema, Mian Mahmood ur Rasheed, and former Senator Ijaz Chaudhry. The committee insists that these individuals be released on parole to allow for their effective participation and leadership in the negotiation process.
The letter also stresses that the success of the talks depends on concrete and practical confidence-building measures. The committee believes that the release of the detained leaders will foster a positive and trust-based atmosphere, which will aid in restoring mutual trust among various political factions.
The National Dialogue Committee has called upon all political parties in the country to rise above narrow interests and play their part in forging a comprehensive consensus on agreements such as the Charter of Democracy and the Charter of Economy, as these steps are vital for long-term political stability and economic recovery.
This important letter has been signed by former PTI leaders Mahmood Moulvi, Imran Ismail, and Fawad Chaudhry, who are members of the committee formed to pave the way for talks between the government and PTI. Fawad Chaudhry also confirmed the letter by sharing a copy with The News.
