Restore Constitution’s True Form, KP Leader Calls as Parties Criticize Govt Over Merit, Rights
Islamabad:Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP) chief **Mahmood Khan Achakzai** on Wednesday demanded that Pakistan’s constitution be restored to its **original and true form**, accusing the ruling establishment of undermining merit and democratic struggle. Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad alongside PTI leader **Asad Qaiser** and Mustafa Nawaz Khokhar, Achakzai said the country’s meritocracy has collapsed and political rewards are being given to those who sell off the nation’s assets.
He sharply criticised the federal leadership, saying the current government of **Shehbaz Sharif and company** has “diluted the struggle for democracy,” and added that even Benazir Bhutto’s party has shared responsibility for the country’s democratic backsliding. Achakzai warned that the popular slogan **“Respect the Vote”** has been abandoned and urged the nation to prepare for a peaceful democratic movement. He appealed to lawyers and defenders of the constitution to join the cause for restoring rule of law.
Former National Assembly Speaker **Asad Qaiser** accused the centre of sidelining Khyber Pakhtunkhwa economically and politically. He said Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s legitimate economic rights, including trade links with Afghanistan that flourished under the previous PTI government, have been curtailed. Qaiser alleged that political vengeance is being practised against the province and demanded a level playing field for all provinces.
Qaiser also highlighted farmers’ distress in Punjab and challenged the provincial chief minister to test her popularity by contesting elections, saying those responsible for mismanagement would face consequences. He criticised remarks by senior leader **Khawaja Asif**, and said most PTI MNAs have resigned from standing committees in protest.
The press conference reflected growing political tensions and calls from opposition leaders for renewed defence of constitutional norms, provincial rights and merit-based governance.
