QUETTA: Opposition Leader in the National Assembly and Chairman of the Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party, Mahmood Khan Achakzai, has warned that if the worsening regional crisis is threat to Pakistan.
Addressing a press conference at the Quetta Press Club on Thursday, he urged all state institutions to operate strictly within their constitutional limits and ensure the supremacy of the Constitution.
He said Parliament must be empowered to resolve national issues effectively, adding that border closures should be reconsidered and trade routes reopened to provide employment opportunities to local communities. “Problems cannot be resolved through the use of force; dialogue is the only way forward,” he said.
Achakzai stressed that Baloch and Pashtun communities, if united on the basis of equality, could transform the situation in Balochistan.
He said that all ethnic groups must be granted full control over their resources to remove mistrust and ensure rights-based governance. “Every people want ownership over their land and resources,” he added.
Referring to the broader political situation, he alleged that the judiciary had been weakened, media restrictions imposed, and human rights undermined, calling the current situation alarming. He said the 2024 elections were widely seen as controversial and should serve as a moment of serious reflection for the country.
He questioned the creation of new districts and divisions without public consent, saying such steps deepen divisions. He stressed that injustice increases resentment, while equality between communities can turn Balochistan into a model of peace and development.
On border trade, he criticized restrictions at the Chaman crossing and questioned incidents of vehicle burning, saying it was the responsibility of the government and law enforcement agencies to investigate and stop such acts. “If the state cannot function, then who will protect the oppressed?” he remarked.
He added that if authorities fail to maintain order despite spending billions, then local communities should be empowered with resources and authority. He claimed that crime and violence are pushing the region toward instability and warned of worsening consequences if the situation continues.
Referring to governance challenges, he said IMF funds and national resources should be transparently accounted for, and questioned development disparities between regions. He also criticized administrative inefficiency, alleging that complaints of citizens are often ignored by officials.
Achakzai reiterated that Pakistan is a multi-ethnic country and must be governed through democratic principles where power rests with the people. He said restricting political leaders or suppressing dialogue would further aggravate tensions.
He urged all stakeholders to jointly work towards peace, equality, and stability in Balochistan and across the country.
