PML-N leader Saad Rafique has reiterated that government would not use any force against workers of PTI and PAT, and appealed leadership of both the protesting parties to shun rigidity.
Speaking to media persons outside the Parliament House, he said government had been in contact with Imran Khan since Ramadan to convince him to postpone his long march, but he refused to shun his plan.
He said PTI workers are not being victimized in Punjab, claiming that action was also taken against PML-N workers for their involvement in violence. He said Khan is using non-parliamentary language in his protest, but the government has not replied in the same tone.
He appealed Khan and Qadri to hold talks and refrain from inciting their workers on clash with government. “Let them go home. Who will be responsible in case of loss of lives? Police, Ranges and army is here to protect government installations… the entire nation is watching. For God’s sake, pity the nation... Let’s talk, we don’t want any confrontation,” Rafique gave vent to his concerns.
“The Parliament is standing by Prime Minister. How an elected PM could be sent home without proofs? The demands of PM’s resignations and dissolution of assemblies are unlawful and unconstitutional.” he said.
Saad Rafique said in series of meetings with PTI leadership, the government held out assurance that their all demands have been met, therefore women and children be allowed to go home, “but we received no reply from Imran Khan, despite our offers he is still harping on PM’s resignation and dissolution of assemblies.”
About talks with Dr. Qadri, Saad Rafique told reporters that three round of dialogues were held with PAT chief and most of the demands of his party’s 10-point agenda were accepted, “but Qadri did not come up with any concrete suggestions on electoral reforms.”
“We even offered him to become head of government’s reforms committee, but he refused it,” the minister claimed. He ensured that government still believes in dialogue process and ready to fulfill demands if the PTI and PAT chiefs demonstrated flexibility.
Thousands of Khan's and Qadri's followers have been camped outside parliament since August 15 demanding Sharif quit, claiming the election which swept him to power last year was rigged.
Yesterday, PM Sharif told the National Assembly that he would not cave in to protests demanding his resignation. The crisis has rattled Sharif's government and prompted rumours that army may intervene to resolve matters.
The PM is still holding consultation with party leaders to break the deadlock
