In Senate, Dar says federal cabinet 'rightly decided' to end process of reconciliation with PTI

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar stated on Tuesday that the federal cabinet had correctly determined that the process of political reconciliation with the opposition Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) was at an end. Dar delivered this assessment during a session in the Senate following the imposition of governor’s rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and the declaration of emergency in 12 of its districts, attributed by the Centre to the provincial government's "deliberate disengagement" from the battle against terrorism.

Dar highlighted that earlier attempts at negotiations between the federal government and PTI had failed, noting that the PPP and PML-N made efforts but were ultimately unsuccessful. He emphasized that political reconciliation could only occur when other conditions were met, pointing out the deteriorating situation in the country and especially within the province.

Dar also addressed the Senate, asserting that every individual has the right to be elected but stressed the importance of governing effectively. He revealed that his support for KP receiving an additional one percent of the gross pool in the National Finance Commission negotiations was aimed at preparing the province for the war against terrorism.

The deputy premier questioned the utilization of Rs800 billion allocated to KP, including expenditures on the Counter-Terrorism Department, law enforcement agencies, and forensic labs. DAR urged reflection on the state of the country and province, particularly in the context of arguments about terrorism's prevalence in Balochistan, where the Balochistan government was reportedly fully committed to combating terrorism.

When PTI leader Maulana Fazlur Rehman attempted to break the deadlock, Dar stated that the matter was presented to the Cabinet, but it was deemed that "things had gone far beyond." Dar claimed that evidence suggested KP's resources were being utilized by PTI's private account rather than the provincial account, leading to concerns about governance.

He expressed frustration, stating that for the past 13 years, the deterioration has been evident. Dar concluded by asserting that the federal cabinet had made a justified decision to terminate political reconciliation. Regarding the governor’s rule imposed in KP, President Asif Ali Zardari issued proclamations under Articles 232 and 234 of the Constitution, which necessitate Senate and National Assembly approval.

The Senate proceeded to discuss the matter, with opposition parties opposing the ruling and PTI Chairman Gohar Ali Khan expressing frustration. The session was adjourned until the following day, with opposition members highlighting the late Chief Minister Chaudhry Mahmood Bashir Virk's contributions to the nation.