Pakistan and Balochistan Passing Through Critical Situation, Rule of Constitution Essential: Mahmood Khan Achakzai

Quetta (Kudrat News) — Opposition Leader in the National Assembly and Chairman of Pakhtunkhwa Milli Awami Party, Mahmood Khan Achakzai, has said that Pakistan, particularly Balochistan, is passing through a highly critical and dangerous phase, stressing that supremacy of the Constitution, democratic process, and respect for public mandate are essential to resolve the country’s political, economic, and law and order challenges.

Addressing a press conference in Quetta along with Nawab Ayaz Khan Jogezai, Abdul Rahim Ziaratwal, Raf Lala, Dr. Hamid Khan Achakzai and other leaders, he said that the current situation in the country and province has become extremely alarming, adding that Pakistan is facing a major regional crisis while Balochistan’s situation is even more complex, where people are deprived of basic facilities and employment opportunities.

He said that the armed forces and state institutions should ensure that the right to elect representatives for Parliament is solely given to the people, and whoever the people elect must be allowed to enter the legislature. He also raised questions over the transparency of the 2024 general elections, stating that in democratic systems around the world, the military operates under elected civilian governments and state affairs are run through public representatives.

Mahmood Khan Achakzai further said that although Balochistan is rich in natural resources, its people continue to suffer from poverty and unemployment, while the country is burdened with trillions of dollars in debt. He questioned how much benefit has actually reached Balochistan and other deprived regions from these loans.

He rejected proposals for the creation of new provinces and districts, saying such steps would weaken rather than strengthen the country. He emphasized unity between Baloch and Pashtun communities and called for a joint strategy.

The opposition leader demanded immediate restoration of cross-border trade in Chaman and other border areas, stating that border trade was the livelihood of thousands of families but restrictions have caused severe hardships. He warned that a strong protest movement could be launched if border routes are not reopened.

Expressing concern over the deteriorating law and order situation in Balochistan, he said that cargo trucks are being set on fire on national highways, and if no party is responsible, then the question arises as to who is behind these incidents. He urged the government to ensure protection for transporters and traders.

He also criticized the judicial system, saying that the delivery of justice has been weakened, leading to an increase in lawlessness, killings, and unrest across the country.