Mahmood Khan Achakzai Declares No Compromise on Constitution, Announces Nationwide Movement Post-Eid

Swat – Mahmood Khan Achakzai, Chairman of the Pashtoonkhwa Milli Awami Party and head of the Tehreek Tahafuz-e-Aain-e-Pakistan, strongly emphasized the supremacy of the Constitution as essential for Pakistan’s survival, development, and prosperity, stating that “no compromise is possible on this principle.”
Speaking at a large public gathering in Swat – following a series of jirgas in Bannu, Hazara, and Kabal – Achakzai addressed Pakistan’s current political turmoil, constitutional crisis, and the socio-political marginalization of the Pashtun community. He sharply criticized state policies and called for justice, equality, and constitutional rule.
Achakzai declared that just as former U.S. President Donald Trump advocated for “America First,” Pashtuns have every right to demand “Pashtun First.” He clarified, “We do not want to break Pakistan, but we will not accept slavery in any form. Equal rights and development are our constitutional and human rights.”
He reminded the audience that Pashtuns have lived on this land for over 5,000 years and that their connection to the region is historical and sacred. He warned state elites and power centers that bowing before any force other than God is against the core principles of Islam and unity.
Achakzai strongly condemned the portrayal of Pashtuns as extremists and terrorists, stating that the Pashtun community has been the most affected victim of global political and economic conflicts, as well as domestic security strategies. He likened their plight to that of Palestinians and Kurds, blaming both colonial and current state policies for their division and deprivation.
Highlighting the rich cultural and religious history of regions like Swat – once the cradle of Buddhist civilization and a hub for tourism – Achakzai lamented that law and order failures, rooted in flawed state policies, have crippled the region’s economic potential.
He also accused the ruling elite of accumulating foreign loans from institutions like the IMF without transparency, claiming that now, under the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), local resources are being handed over to foreign investors without public accountability.
Criticizing the general elections held on February 8, 2024, Achakzai alleged that the polls were massively rigged in a premeditated plan. He claimed certain candidates were declared winners through mere checkmarks, reportedly in exchange for bribes of up to Rs. 700 million.
“Anyone who refuses to be bought, who demands supremacy of the Constitution and Parliament, is labeled a traitor,” he said.
Achakzai concluded by announcing a nationwide movement under the banner of Tehreek Tahafuz-e-Aain-e-Pakistan to be launched after Eid-ul-Adha. The movement aims to restore constitutional rule, democracy, and the sovereignty of the people.
The Swat jirga saw participation from leaders of various political parties, civil society members, intellectuals, lawyers, teachers, and local elders. A unanimous declaration was issued at the end, calling for collective struggle to ensure constitutional supremacy, end state oppression, and secure the political, economic, and cultural rights of the Pashtun people.