Democratic Path Under Threat in Pakistan, Pashtunkhwa MAP Leaders Rally Students for Constitutional Movement

Quetta:Leaders of the Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PMAP) warned that democracy in Pakistan is being systematically undermined through frequent unconstitutional amendments, asserting that the current assemblies lack genuine public representation. They declared that the country’s democratic forces now look to PMAP Chairman and head of the Tehreek Tahaffuz Aeen-e-Pakistan, Mahmood Khan Achakzai, as the final beacon of hope.
Speaking at the Science College Quetta regional unit conference and welcome ceremony for new students, PMAP central secretary Nawab Muhammad Ayaz Khan Jogezai, central secretary Dr. Hamid Khan Achakzai, PSO finance secretary Mahmood Achakzai, zonal deputy organizer Shahbaz Khan Pir Alizai, district deputy secretary Syed Safdar Agha and former regional secretary Essa Khan Achakzai delivered strong remarks about the current political climate.
The event, chaired by Ayaz Jogezai, also included the oath-taking ceremony of the newly elected cabinet of the Pashtunkhwa Students Organization (PSO) Science College regional unit. A 21-member cabinet was announced, and the oath was administered by PSO Quetta district senior assistant Wasi Khan. Hundreds of students, along with PMAP and PSO leaders from provincial, district and regional levels, attended the ceremony.
### **“Democracy Blocked, Constitution Under Attack”**
The speakers said that non-democratic amendments to the constitution are being pushed repeatedly, while assemblies “lacking true public mandate” continue to legislate without moral or constitutional authority. They emphasized that Mahmood Khan Achakzai has been a steadfast defender of democratic values for decades and must be supported in the current struggle.
### **Call for Unity and Youth Responsibility**
The leaders highlighted that Pashtun lands are once again facing instability due to global power interests. They stressed that only national unity—and particularly the role of educated youth—can protect the region from external designs. Students, they said, must understand their responsibilities as the future of society.
Speakers expressed deep concern over the collapse of secondary-level education in the province, pointing out that students from across Balochistan live in rented rooms because college hostels remain closed.
### **Concerns Over Exploitation of Resources**
PMAP leaders strongly criticized the exploitation of the region’s mineral wealth without local consent, alleging that valuable resources are being handed over to outsiders. They claimed that coal miners are routinely kidnapped as part of a deliberate conspiracy, causing extended closure of mines and depriving thousands of workers of livelihood.
They also referenced historical grievances, saying billions of rupees were funneled into military leadership during the Afghan war, while ordinary people continue to suffer. The recent treatment of long-settled Afghan refugees, they said, is “inhumane and unacceptable.”
### **Educational Restoration Efforts**
Speakers praised Nawab Ayaz Jogezai for previously transforming Science College from a dilapidated condition into a functional institution during PMAP’s tenure. They urged the education department to address outstanding student demands and improve facilities.
### **Cultural Celebration**
The ceremony concluded with traditional Pashtun attan dances, a musical program, and a welcome reception for newly admitted students, reflecting the cultural pride and unity of the student community.