State Machinery Should Not Be Used Against Anyone, Says Mahmood Khan Achakzai

QUETTA: Chief of the Tehreek Tahafuz-e-Ayeen Pakistan, Mahmood Khan Achakzai, has said that Pakistan and Balochistan’s challenges can be resolved through truth, constitutional governance, and an independent judicial system, stressing that the country must not be pushed toward civil conflict.

Addressing members of the Balochistan Bar Council in Quetta, Achakzai said that merely engaging tribal chiefs and influential figures would not be enough to address the province’s longstanding issues. He noted that lawyers are well aware that Pakistan’s 1973 Constitution was the result of extensive political struggle and consensus-building.

He emphasized that national issues can only be resolved through adherence to the Constitution and the judiciary, adding that democratic institutions lose credibility when legislative seats are influenced by money and political bargaining.

Achakzai criticized what he described as the buying and selling of parliamentary seats, arguing that the problems of ordinary citizens cannot be solved in a system where elected offices are allegedly secured through financial influence. He also said that those who speak for rights and justice are often labeled as traitors, despite the Constitution clearly defining both citizens’ rights and acts of treason.

The veteran politician stated that the Tehreek Tahafuz-e-Ayeen Pakistan comprises several democratic and public-oriented political parties and called for free, fair, and impartial elections across the country.

He reiterated that the people of each province should have the first right over their natural resources and maintained that his movement is not working against any individual or institution.

“State institutions and the national system should not be used against anyone,” Achakzai said, adding that the country must not be allowed to descend into civil strife under any circumstances.

He further remarked that remaining silent in the current situation would be a form of negligence, while stressing that his movement seeks peaceful democratic engagement. He urged authorities not to obstruct political activities or restrict the constitutional rights of citizens and political groups.

Achakzai concluded by reaffirming his commitment to a democratic and constitutional struggle aimed at ensuring justice, political inclusion, and equal rights for all citizens.