Sirajul Haq holds separate meetings with PM Shehbaz, Imran Khan to bring political leadership on table to develop consensus on general elections

LAHORE, April 15 (SABAH): Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan Emir Sirajul Haq on Saturday held separate meetings with Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Chairman and former prime minister Imran Khan at their residences in Model Town and Zaman Park.

Sirajul Haq meetings with the heads of the PML-N and the PTI were held in continuation of the JI efforts to bring the political leadership on table to develop consensus on the general elections. It was agreed that the JI would approach the leadership of the other parties in coming days for the purpose. JI Naib Emir Liaqat Baloch and Secretary General Ameerul Azim were accompanying him during the meetings with Shehbaz Sharif and the former prime minister Imran Khan.

Sirajul Haq told Shehbaz Sharif that being the prime minister, the responsibility of the 230 million Pakistanis lied on the latter’s shoulder. Hence, he said, the PM should come forward before the others with open heart and thoughts for seeking solution to the prevailing crises. The JI chief said the country was simultaneously hit by political, constitutional and economic crises. And, he added, these problems could only be solved if the politicians would become ready and start dialogue. He said the judiciary and the establishment were not the right forum to approach to resolve the political deadlock. He said all the parties should have to develop consensus on general elections.

Shehbaz Sharif and Imran Khan appreciated the JI chief efforts and assured their full cooperation, agreeing the elections were the way forward to pull the country out of prevailing economic, political and constitutional crises.

Shehbaz Sharif said his party was ready to cooperate with the JI if the latter wanted to play any positive role on the matter of national importance. He also pointed out that everyone should come out of stubbornness and show flexibility to develop some consensus.

Imran Khan said the elections were the only solution to the prevailing problems and the PTI was ready to cooperate with the JI in its efforts.