Sardar Muhammad Khondai:
CHAMAN: Opposition leader Mahmood Khan Achakzai has strongly criticized the continued closure of the Chaman border crossing, calling it unjust and demanding its immediate reopening for trade and movement.
Speaking at a gathering, Achakzai said, “Those who speak in the language of bullets have their borders open, but the Chaman border remains closed. Either all borders should be shut, or the Chaman border must be reopened immediately.”
He alleged that the closure of the border at Chaman, particularly for customs operations at the Pak-Afghan crossing, was carried out under a “pre-planned conspiracy.” According to him, the move has adversely affected local businesses and the livelihoods of people dependent on cross-border trade.
Achakzai termed the situation a contradiction, stating that while those advocating violence appear to face no restrictions, citizens advocating peace, economic development, and lawful trade are being penalized through border closures.
Calling for the supremacy of the Constitution and the rule of law, he emphasized that Parliament remains the highest institution in the country and said all political forces must work together to ensure parliamentary supremacy.
The opposition leader further stated that his party was striving to secure due rights for the Pashtun population in accordance with their contributions to the country. He stressed that people living in border regions, should be provided opportunities for legal trade and business to improve economic conditions.
Achakzai reiterated his vision for a prosperous and developed Pakistan under the Constitution, asserting that the rights of all nationalities living in the country must be recognized and protected. He added that no ethnic group should face discrimination or subjugation in Pakistan.
The remarks come amid continued debate over border management, trade restrictions, and the economic impact of closures on communities in border regions, especially in Chaman.
