ANP Provincial President Asghar Khan Achakzai Condemns Economic and Social Plight of Pashtuns, Calls for Unity at Central Gathering

CHAMAN:Asghar Khan Achakzai**, the Provincial President of the **Awami National Party (ANP)**, has strongly condemned the ongoing economic and social struggles of the Pashtun people from **Chaman to Bajaur**, attributing them to the machinations of “foreign powers” and **state-led policies**. He highlighted the **long-term genocide** of the Pashtun-Afghan nation, along with a continued assault on their **economic resources**, stressing that these adverse conditions necessitate **unity** among Pashtuns, as envisioned by the late **Bacha Khan**.

Speaking at a meeting with district officials of the **Awami National Party** in **Chaman**, Achakzai emphasized that the **central gathering** on **August 8**, commemorating the **Martyrs of August**, had gained even more significance in the current political climate, particularly in light of the **political instability** in **Pashtunkhwa** and **Balochistan**.

He said, “From the **Pashtun belt** stretching from **Chaman to Bajaur**, we are facing immense challenges. This is a collective problem that requires unity and cooperation. Our **Bacha Khan** laid the foundation for such unity, and now, in this critical moment, we must stand together.”

### Key Issues to Be Highlighted at the Central Gathering

Achakzai revealed that the upcoming gathering, organized by **ANP**, will address a wide range of pressing issues, including:

* **The Pashtun-Baloch Divide**: The ongoing policies that pit **Pashtuns** against **Baloch** communities.
* **Economic Exploitation**: The implementation of **Mines and Minerals Act** and **land resource encroachment** by external forces.
* **Terrorism and Extremism**: The increasing incidents of terrorism and extremism in Pashtun and Baloch-majority areas.
* **Bajaur Operation**: A detailed discussion on the **Bajaur operation** and the **martyrdom of Maulana Khanzaib**.
* **Security Concerns**: Rising incidents of **terrorist attacks** and the **unrest on national highways**.
* **Police Reforms**: The merger of **Levies** into the police force and its implications.
* **Power Shortages**: Unannounced **electricity load-shedding** affecting daily life.

The **central president of ANP**, **Senator Aimal Wali Khan**, will address these issues and discuss potential solutions for the **Pashtun** and **Baloch** communities.

### Party Preparations and Strategy

The district leadership, led by **Abdul Khaliq Haqmal**, reviewed preparations for the **central gathering**, scheduled to take place in **Muslim Bagh**. Emphasis was placed on forming multiple **administrative committees** to ensure the event’s success. District-level units were urged to strengthen their connections with the people and ensure maximum participation.

### Demands and Criticism of Government Policies

The meeting also criticized the government’s attitude toward the **Chaman-Quetta Trade Corridor** and **cross-border trade**. The **closure of the trade route**, a lifeline for the local economy, was described as an **act of oppression** against the people of **Chaman** and **Qilla Abdullah**.

Further, **AWP** officials condemned the **unwarranted actions** of the government against **government employees**. These employees, they argued, were being subjected to **unfair transfers** and **forced postings**, which they termed as **“anti-people”** actions. The ANP called on the **government and district administration** to immediately halt such practices and ensure fair treatment of public servants.

### Calls for National and Economic Reforms

Achakzai stated that the **August 8 gathering** would not only focus on the struggles of the Pashtuns but also offer a platform to discuss **national political challenges** and **economic reforms** that would help address the growing concerns of **Pashtun** and **Baloch** communities.

“The **time** is ripe for **change**, and **Aimal Wali Khan’s** presence at the gathering will signify that we, as a nation, must unite to overcome the challenges posed by both external and internal forces,” Achakzai concluded.

The **ANP** leadership has urged its members to put forth their **full efforts** to ensure the success of the upcoming gathering, as it represents an important milestone in the **struggle for Pashtun rights** and **unity**.