Mahmoom Khan Achakzai Criticizes Pakistan’s Political and Constitutional Crisis, Calls for National Dialogue

Islamabad:Chairman of the Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP) and leader of the Pakistan Constitution Protection Movement, Mahmood Khan Achakzai, has strongly criticized the current political situation in Pakistan, labeling the February 8, 2024, elections as the “most bogus and unjust elections” in the country’s history. In a conversation with a private TV channel, Achakzai stated that negotiations can only occur when there are differences between two parties. He emphasized that the current situation is not about negotiations but rather about demanding the return of stolen property and justice.

Achakzai accused certain forces of altering the election results despite Imran Khan’s clear victory and urged those responsible for this tampering to apologize and step down. He asserted that if Pakistan truly matters to them, they must repent for the crime they have committed against the country.

The PkMAP leader also praised Nawaz Sharif for his commitment to democracy, citing his slogan “Give respect to the vote.” He suggested that Sharif, along with other political leaders such as Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, Maulana Fazlur Rehman, and the leadership of the PPP, should form a national government for four months to ensure transparent elections and restore Pakistan’s constitutional framework.

Achakzai also condemned the ongoing mockery of Pakistan’s constitution, pointing out the alarming remarks made by the Speaker of the National Assembly, who allowed intelligence agencies to tap anyone’s phone. He warned that those responsible for undermining the constitution should face severe punishment, as the constitution itself declares any military coup or constitutional violation as unconstitutional.

Reflecting on Pakistan’s current state, Achakzai described the country as being in the midst of multifaceted crises—constitutional, political, economic, and moral. He stressed the need for all stakeholders, including journalists, judges, economists, and experts, to come together and work on a national strategy for the country’s survival. He further criticized the ruling elites for their failure to address the violence against protesters, referencing incidents like the killing of innocent citizens in Pishin, and warned against attempts to break the nation apart.

Achakzai vowed to resist any attempts to weaken Pakistan, stating that if the political elites continued with such behavior, the people would have no choice but to take to the streets. He appealed to the public to participate in peaceful protests on February 8, demanding the release of political prisoners and the restoration of the people’s mandate.

Additionally, he condemned the undemocratic tactics used against political leaders like Benazir Bhutto and emphasized that those in power today were no better, as their corruption remained unchecked. He also denounced the practice of vote-buying and the targeting of politicians through corrupt methods, demanding accountability for the state’s actions.

Achakzai concluded by referencing the teachings of the Quran, which admonishes against lying, and expressed frustration with the country’s leadership, who, despite their claims of righteousness, were involved in corruption and deceit. He questioned how such leaders could continue to hold office while undermining the nation’s values.