Mahmood Khan Achakzai Pledges Unconditional Support for Parliament, Says Army Is “Our Army”
ISLAMABAD: Opposition Leader in the National Assembly and Chairman of Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party, Mahmood Khan Achakzai, said in a parliamentary address that Pakistan’s military, parliament, and democratic federation deserve unconditional support for the country’s stability and development.
Speaking in the National Assembly session, he said the day should not be about political differences or accusations, emphasizing that lawmakers fully understand national interests and are not ignorant of Pakistan’s priorities.
He stated that the Pakistan Army is “our army,” adding that the progress of Pakistan is the progress of all citizens and that the parliament represents the will of the people.
Achakzai said it was unfortunate that some people assume opposition lawmakers do not understand national interests, stressing that despite political differences, no one should question their commitment to the country.
Addressing Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, he said the prime minister holds the constitutional role of chief executive and should ensure effective governance based on parliamentary strength.
He also called for the reinstatement of a suspended Member of the National Assembly, referring to an incident in which a lawmaker from Khyber was removed from the session. He urged the Speaker to review the decision and allow the member to return to the House to represent his constituency.
Referring to parliamentary procedures, he stressed that speeches made in the National Assembly should be broadcast on state television, and that members should be allowed full freedom to express their views under parliamentary privilege.
Concluding his speech, Achakzai reiterated that despite differences, he would extend full and unconditional support to strengthen Pakistan’s parliamentary system, democracy, and federal structure.
