Mahmood Achakzai expresses concern that Imran may be treated like Zulfikar Ali Bhutto
Mahmood Khan Achakzai, Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP) chairman on Monday declared that the tragic fate Zulfikar Ali Bhutto experienced would not be allowed to befall Imran Khan.
Speaking at a public gathering in Qilla Saifullah, held to honor democracy’s martyrs, Mr. Achakzai warned that if the alleged interference of the military in politics continued, Pakistan would remain a politically unstable country with its future clouded by uncertainty.
He affirmed to oppose any efforts to alter the Constitution under the guise of amendments.
Recalling the events of October 7, 1983, Mr. Achakzai described how PkMAP had organized a procession in Quetta, calling for General Zia to restore the Constitution and democracy. The response from martial law authorities, he said, was harsh, leading to the deaths of four party workers and injuries to many others due to gunfire. He also highlighted that during the crackdown, hundreds of participants were also arrested.
Expressing concern over PTI’s fears for Mr. Khan’s life, drawing parallels to Bhutto’s tragic end, and highlighting the challenges faced by PTI workers, including alleged repression during their protests for Imran Khan release, Mr. Achakzai called for the immediate release of Imran Khan and other political prisoners, warning that failing to do so could lead to civil unrest.
He expressed solidarity with the judiciary while praising its efforts to uphold the Constitution and reiterated his party’s unwavering commitment to democracy and constitutional rule.
Criticizing the government’s ban on the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement, Achakzai called it unconstitutional and a violation of fundamental democratic rights.
He condem Israel genocide against the Palestinian people, urging the global community, especially the Muslim world, to take action for resolving the crisis based on a two-state solution.
Additionally, he commented on the February 8 elections, deeming them heavily rigged and arguing that the resulting government lacked both constitutional and moral legitimacy.
