Staff Reporter:
QUETTA: Opposition Leader in the National Assembly and Chairman of the Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP), Mahmood Khan Achakzai, on Wednesday challenged an FIR registered against him in the Balochistan High Court, while reiterating that a truly elected and independent parliament remains the only path to political stability in Pakistan.
The FIR, lodged on the complaint of a man identified as Waleed Khan, accuses Achakzai of making alleged “seditious remarks” against state institutions during a public speech. Appearing before the Balochistan High Court, the veteran politician challenged the case, arguing against the legal proceedings initiated against him.
Following the hearing, Achakzai addressed members of the Balochistan High Court Bar, where he said the Tehreek Tahafuz Ayeen-e-Pakistan (Movement for the Protection of Pakistan’s Constitution) was the only political alliance formed independently, without the backing of what he described as “powerful quarters.”
He said Pakistan and Balochistan’s longstanding issues could only be resolved through truth, constitutional governance, and democratic institutions, adding that an independent parliament was essential for national stability.
“Bringing only tribal elites and influential figures into the political process will not solve the province’s problems,” he said, stressing broader public participation.
Achakzai highlighted the importance of the 1973 Constitution, saying lawyers understand the sacrifices made for its formation. He argued that constitutional supremacy and judicial independence remain vital for resolving national disputes.
Calling for free, fair, and transparent elections, Achakzai said regular electoral exercises alone are insufficient if they fail to reflect the genuine mandate of the people.
Criticizing what he described as the increasing role of money in politics, he alleged that parliamentary seats are often influenced by financial power, leaving ordinary citizens without effective representation.
He also said those speaking for constitutional rights are frequently labeled as traitors, despite the Constitution clearly defining both citizens’ rights and acts of disloyalty to the state.
On Balochistan’s resources, Achakzai maintained that local communities should have the first right over provincial wealth. He clarified that his political movement was not against any institution but opposed the misuse of state systems for political purposes.
“Every country has intelligence agencies, but institutions should not be used against political opponents,” he said.
Warning against growing political tensions, Achakzai said Pakistan must not be pushed toward internal conflict and added that remaining silent under current circumstances amounts to ignoring serious national concerns.
