Mahmood Khan Achakzai Calls for a New Constitutional Assembly, Criticizes Current Political System

IslamabadضMahmood Khan Achakzai, Chairman of the Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party and leader of the Movement for the Protection of Pakistan’s Constitution, expressed grave concerns over the current state of affairs in the region and the nation. He warned that the Pashtun, Baloch, and Sindhi people may be forced to demand a new constitutional assembly, as the current constitution could neither save itself nor Pakistan.

Achakzai’s remarks came during a speech at the launch of journalist Ali Furqan’s book, *From 9th May to 8th February*, in Islamabad. He stressed that the situation in the region, particularly the abductions of ethnic communities and the deteriorating rule of law, necessitates immediate political reforms.

“Pakistan is at a crossroads,” he stated, adding, “If we want to save this country, we must pledge to uphold the Constitution and refrain from political interference. Our military must be freed from its dual responsibilities.”

Achakzai criticized the government’s lack of action on key issues, including the abduction of women and the unfair distribution of resources. He emphasized the dire conditions faced by the people of Balochistan, noting that while resources like natural gas are being exploited in the province, the local population, particularly women, still lacks access to basic services like gas for cooking.

“The people of Balochistan, like the rest of Pakistan, deserve better,” he said. “Yet, the state continues to oppress and marginalize them. The rich resources of Balochistan should benefit its people, but instead, we see increasing poverty and deprivation.”

He further critiqued the government’s handling of the 2024 elections, calling them “unfair” and accusing political elites of undermining the democratic process. He also lamented the ongoing political and military struggles that continue to plague the nation.

Achakzai stressed that the state’s failure to uphold its constitutional duties has led to widespread corruption and disillusionment. He urged for a fresh constitutional assembly, emphasizing that the current system has failed both the people and the nation.

The political leader also pointed out that Pakistan’s sovereignty is at risk, given the external pressures from neighboring countries like Afghanistan and Iran. He called for unity among the ethnic groups within Pakistan, stating that the country’s future depends on a fair and just system where all people, irrespective of their ethnic background, have equal rights and access to resources.

“If we want Pakistan to thrive, we need to ensure that the Constitution is respected by all, including the military and political leaders,” he concluded.