Mahmood Khan Achakzai Slams Government, Demands Accountability for Political Violence and Corruption

Quetta: Mahmood Khan Achakzai, Chairman of the Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party and head of the Movement for Constitutional Protection of Pakistan, has strongly criticized the current government, accusing it of widespread corruption, violation of basic rights, and manipulation of the electoral process. He demanded a judicial inquiry into the killings of peaceful protesters at D-Chowk and called for accountability from top government officials, including the Prime Minister, the Federal Minister for Interior, and the IG of Police.
Speaking at a press conference, Achakzai claimed that the results of the February 8 elections were altered to rob the people of their mandate, leading to a government that he described as a “fake” and “unconstitutional” one. He stated, “One vote was bought for seventy crore rupees. This is not democracy, it is a mockery of the people’s will.”
He further alleged that the government’s actions had led to rampant corruption, with “unspeakable levels” of malpractices happening under its watch. He pointed out that in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab, where the PTI had a clear majority, thousands of peaceful protesters were shot at D-Chowk. He condemned the government for firing on PTI supporters, calling it a violation of basic rights.
“Pakistan is in a deep crisis, and the state is not providing security to its citizens. In fact, innocent people are being killed in areas like Radashem and Hernai, but no arrests have been made,” Achakzai added, expressing his frustration with the government’s failure to provide justice. “A state that cannot give its people peace has no right to govern,” he asserted.
Achakzai also questioned the state’s commitment to democracy, accusing it of undermining the Constitution and the rule of law. He called for a peaceful resolution to the crisis, urging all political parties to come together for fresh elections within three to four months. “Let the people decide who should govern,” he said.
The opposition leader also emphasized the need for a free and fair electoral process, demanding the release of PTI’s founder, Imran Khan, who has been imprisoned on various charges. “Releasing Imran Khan on bail will not bring the sky down. What we need is the supremacy of the Constitution and respect for the vote.”
Regarding Pakistan’s current political and economic situation, Achakzai lamented the country’s governance, stating that while millions are being spent to buy votes, there is nothing for the country’s poor. “If anyone truly loves Pakistan, they should repent,” he remarked, adding that in times of crisis, it is the common people, not corrupt leaders, who would save the country.
Achakzai also called for greater international attention, urging democratic nations to stand with the people of Pakistan. He concluded by demanding a judicial inquiry into the killings at D-Chowk, warning that if the government continues down its current path, the country risks further instability.