Back-channel contacts with PTI continue, says Rana Sanaullah

Prime Minister’s Adviser on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah has said that although no formal negotiations are currently taking place with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), back-channel contacts between the two sides continue.

He also said Governor’s Rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will remain in force until its objectives are achieved.

Speaking on a private television programme, Sanaullah said terrorism was spreading in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with alleged support from India and Afghanistan.

He stressed that eliminating terrorism was essential and said all stakeholders would be taken into confidence on the matter.

He added that there was no alternative to succeeding in the fight against terrorism.

Responding to Maulana Fazlur Rehman’s objections to the imposition of Governor’s Rule in the province, Sanaullah described the issue as a difference of opinion rather than a political confrontation.

He said Fazlur Rehman was entitled to express his disagreement, while the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) also had the right to hold a different position.

He emphasised that disagreements should be expressed democratically.

Sanaullah also responded to Federal Minister Chaudhry Salik’s allegations of corruption in Punjab, saying accusations should not be made without evidence.

He noted that Salik had himself acknowledged not having evidence to support the allegations.