QUETTA: National Assembly Opposition Leader Mehmood Khan Achakzai has filed a petition with the Balochistan High Court to challenge a First Information Report (FIR) registered against him in Chaman over a recent controversial speech. The leader also maintains that the prevailing challenges facing the nation are fundamentally political in nature.
Addressing the media and legal community at the high court on Wednesday, Achakzai, who serves as the chairman of the Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP), emphasized that establishing a genuine democratic society is essential for the country’s progress.
He argued that unwarranted interference in the electoral process has systematically weakened democratic institutions across the nation. Furthermore, he noted that individuals advocating for constitutional supremacy and democratic principles are frequently subjected to unwarranted criticism.
Highlighting the necessity of a political framework rooted in authentic public representation, Achakzai stated that Pakistan requires a genuinely elected parliament. This parliament, he asserted, must be empowered to make independent decisions regarding critical domestic and foreign policies in the broader interest of the state and its citizens. “We will not be able to overcome our recurring crises unless we implement a transparent mechanism and ensure autonomous policy-making,” he remarked.
The veteran politician pointed out that the nation’s constitution is the product of extensive political struggle and consensus. He reiterated that halting continuous interference in the electoral process—which has historically compromised civil institutions—is vital for the preservation of democracy.
Regarding the legal action initiated against him, Achakzai addressed the FIR lodged by an individual named Wali Achakzai at the Chaman City Police Station. The opposition leader argued that the case, which stems from his allegedly controversial remarks, fails to meet constitutional and legal standards and should therefore be declared null and void.