Mahmood Khan Achakzai Slams State Policies, Announces Nationwide Movement for Constitutional Supremacy Post-Eid

Swat:Pashtoonkhwa Milli Awami Party (PMAP) Chairman and head of the Tehreek Tahaffuz-e-Aain-e-Pakistan, MNA **Mahmood Khan Achakzai**, launched a scathing critique of Pakistan’s current political and constitutional crisis during a large *Jirga* held in Swat, following similar gatherings in Bannu, Hazara, and Kabal.

Addressing a crowd comprising political leaders, intellectuals, legal professionals, teachers, and civil society members, Achakzai emphasized that **Pakistan’s survival, development, and prosperity lie solely in the supremacy of the Constitution**, stating that this is a principle on which there can be no compromise.

Achakzai strongly advocated for **“Pashtun First”**, drawing parallels to U.S. President Donald Trump’s “America First” policy, and asserted that Pashtuns, like every other nation, have a right to control their own resources. “We do not want to break Pakistan, but we will never accept slavery,” he declared.

Highlighting historical injustices, Achakzai pointed out that **Pashtuns have been geographically and administratively divided since British colonial rule**, and the current state has only deepened these divisions. He equated the plight of the Pashtun people to that of Palestinians and Kurds, blaming both **state elites and strategic policies** for turning the region into a battleground of global geopolitical interests.

He lamented the state’s portrayal of Pashtuns as extremists and terrorists, despite them being **the worst victims of terrorism and militarization**. “Humanity must be our top priority. Discrimination based on religion, ethnicity, or sect is unacceptable,” he added.

Touching upon the economic aspect, Achakzai accused ruling elites of acquiring massive foreign loans without transparency. He criticized the **Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC)** for handing over local resources to global investors under pressure from international financial institutions like the IMF.

On the 2024 general elections, Achakzai alleged **massive pre-planned rigging**, claiming that selected candidates were chosen merely by placing ticks against their names in exchange for bribes as high as **Rs. 700 million**. “Anyone who refuses to be bought or speaks for the Constitution is labeled a traitor,” he remarked.

Achakzai announced a **nationwide movement under the banner of Tehreek Tahaffuz-e-Aain-e-Pakistan**, set to launch after Eid-ul-Adha. The movement’s goal will be to **restore the Constitution, democracy, and the sovereignty of the people**.

The Jirga concluded with a unanimous declaration calling for:

* Supremacy of the Constitution,
* An end to state oppression,
* Collective struggle for the political, economic, and cultural rights of the Pashtun people.

The event marked a significant political moment for Swat, reaffirming growing demands for democratic accountability, regional equality, and constitutional governance in Pakistan.