Mahmoom Khan Achakzai Calls for Roundtable Conference Amid Pakistan’s Crisis
Islamabad:The leader of the opposition alliance *Tehreek-e-Tahaffuz-e-Aaen-e-Pakistan*, Mahmood Khan Achakzai, has called for a roundtable conference involving the judiciary, military, and political leaders to address the ongoing crises in the country. He also raised concerns about the ongoing negotiations between the government and the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), questioning the legitimacy of talks with a government he claims lacks a mandate.
In a press conference held in Islamabad on Friday alongside *Majlis Wahdat-e-Muslimeen* leader and Senator Raja Nasir Abbas, Achakzai expressed deep concern over Pakistan’s deteriorating situation. He stated, “The state of affairs in the country is apparent to everyone, but the rulers seem oblivious to these realities.”
### **Rulers’ Inattention to the Crisis**
Achakzai warned that many countries around the world are keen to see Pakistan’s internal situation deteriorate, and are attempting to push Pakistan toward instability. He criticized the government’s focus on irrelevant issues while ignoring the country’s urgent challenges.
“Pakistan is in a critical situation, and it is imperative that the government, instead of being preoccupied with inconsequential matters, takes serious steps towards resolving the crisis,” he added.
### **Proposal for a National Roundtable Conference**
The opposition leader proposed that a roundtable conference be convened to address the country’s crises, involving all key stakeholders, including political parties, the judiciary, the military, and other state institutions. “The country is in turmoil, and it is crucial that the leadership takes collective action. All relevant institutions must come together to discuss the way forward,” he said.
Achakzai emphasized the need for strong diplomatic efforts, particularly with neighboring countries. He advocated for the establishment of better relations with Afghanistan and highlighted the importance of China’s longstanding friendship with Pakistan. “We should use China’s relationship with Afghanistan to strengthen our ties with other neighboring countries as well,” he said.
### **A Call for Regional Diplomacy**
He further suggested holding a roundtable conference with neighboring countries such as Russia and India to address regional issues. “We need to foster better regional cooperation and focus on resolving the challenges faced by the region,” he added.
### **Doubts Over Government-PTI Talks**
In response to a question about the ongoing negotiations between the government and PTI, Achakzai raised concerns about the legitimacy of the current government. “How can you hold talks with a government that lacks a legitimate mandate?” he questioned. He also stated that while he hopes for the success of such negotiations, he believes the environment surrounding these discussions is not conducive to any meaningful outcome. “We pray for the success of these talks, but in such circumstances, even prayers seem unlikely to be answered,” he said.
### **Historical Insight on Shahbaz Sharif’s Ambitions**
Achakzai also revealed that Shahbaz Sharif, leader of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), had aspirations of becoming prime minister during General Pervez Musharraf’s regime. “Shahbaz Sharif was eager to become prime minister during Musharraf’s rule, and he had fully prepared for it. However, it was Nawaz Sharif who stopped him from taking that position,” Achakzai disclosed.
### **Conclusion**
As Pakistan grapples with political instability and an uncertain future, Achakzai’s call for a comprehensive roundtable conference highlights the need for collective action to address the nation’s challenges. His remarks also underline the importance of regional cooperation and the necessity for responsible leadership to navigate the country through these turbulent times.
