Islamabad: A majority of Pakistan Tehreek e Insaf (PTI) lawmakers opposed further negotiations with the establishment during a parliamentary party meeting on Tuesday, exposing differences over the party's political strategy, leadership decisions and response to the imposition of governor's rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

The meeting, chaired by PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan at Parliament House, lasted more than seven hours. Former National Assembly speaker Asad Qaiser, Senator Ali Zafar and Chief Whip Malik Amir Dogar were among those present.

According to participants quoted in media reports, most lawmakers argued that previous attempts at dialogue had produced no results and that further engagement would weaken the party's negotiating position.

However, approximately 15 members supported engagement over the proposed 28th Constitutional Amendment, arguing that cooperation could improve relations with the establishment and create conditions for former prime minister Imran Khan's release.

The disagreement reflects competing approaches within PTI over whether political negotiations or continued opposition would better serve its objectives.

Several lawmakers criticised the party leadership for delegating authority to former KP chief minister Sohail Afridi, questioning his influence despite holding no formal position in the party hierarchy. Some members accused the leadership of prioritising administrative appointments and financial matters in KP rather than addressing the party's political challenges. These allegations were not independently verified.

Tensions increased when Asad Qaiser reportedly presented a declaration containing proposals that several participants said had not been discussed. Faisal Amin Gandapur reportedly objected to the document before leaving the meeting following an exchange with Barrister Gohar.

Azam Swati called for the leadership's resignation, while other members raised concerns about detained party workers, lawmakers and the party's response to arrests. Despite the disagreements, participants maintained that PTI continued to retain public support following the removal of its provincial government in KP.

Gohar demands access to Imran Khan

Speaking to reporters outside Parliament House, Barrister Gohar demanded the restoration of meetings with imprisoned PTI founder Imran Khan, claiming that restrictions on access had continued for 375 days. He argued that allowing party representatives and family members to meet Khan could help reduce political tensions.

Gohar also criticised the imposition of emergency measures and governor's rule in KP, accusing the federal government of using security concerns to target PTI. While reiterating the party's support for counterterrorism operations, he maintained that security measures should not be used against political opponents.

He further questioned the extension of Imran Khan's sisters' detention and claimed that 12 PTI National Assembly members and several provincial lawmakers remained in custody.

Further consultations planned

Despite opposition to negotiations from most participants, Gohar publicly called for dialogue between the government and opposition, highlighting the differences over PTI's future political approach. Following the meeting, Amir Dogar said no decisions had been finalised and consultations would continue with opposition leaders in both houses of parliament.

Senator Ali Zafar said committees headed by parliamentary opposition leaders would examine possible courses of action. The discussions come as PTI faces questions over its leadership structure, political representation and relationship with the federal government following developments in KP.

The party has yet to announce a position on further negotiations or the proposed constitutional amendment.