Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday extended “another chance” for dialogue to PTI founder Imran Khan, terming it the “sole option” for the incarcerated former premier if he wants to ease his jail hardships. Speaking in the National Assembly, Sharif said, “If Imran Khan has problems in jail, so let's sit and talk.” The premier recalled proposing a compact economy in his first speech, only to have it rejected outright. Sharif extended an offer to discuss the economy again, questioning who is responsible for the current bitterness that has prevented even the simplest of gestures, like shaking hands. The prime minister recounted his own time in jail, sharing that he was denied leave when his mother passed away. Highlighting the distinction between the rights of undertrial and convicted prisoners, PM Shehbaz emphasised the need to avoid subjecting Imran Khan to similar mistreatment.

Source: The Express Tribune June 26, 2024 20:46 UTC