Senator Irfan Siddiqui of the Pakistan Muslim League (N) has articulated a strong critique of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party’s approach towards negotiations while espousing civil disobedience. In a statement, Irfan Siddiqui emphasized the impossibility of extending a handshake when one hand wields a sword.
He stated, “Whether PTI speaks of negotiations or civil disobedience, one hand cannot hold a sword while the other extends for a handshake.” This metaphor underscores his belief that PTI’s dual strategy of seeking concessions while promoting dissent cannot coexist.
Irfan Siddiqui further explained that demands for leniency cannot be reconciled with calls for civil disobedience, indicating that pursuing both strategies simultaneously is counterproductive. He urged that if progress is to be made, it is crucial not to impose additional burdens on the nation, asserting, “We already carry enough weight.”