Mahmood Khan Achakzai, leader of the Pashtun Khawa Milli Awami Party (PKMAP) has called for immediate and transparent elections as the only viable solution to Pakistan's ongoing political and security crisis. Speaking on the final day of the two-day Aman Jirga (Peace Jirga) held in Loralai, Balochistan, Achakzai emphasized that the country’s political system is paralyzed, and the federal government’s growing intervention in provincial affairs is undermining regional autonomy. In his address, Achakzai, a prominent Pashtun leader and head of the opposition alliance Tehreek-e-Tafaquz-e-Pakistan, asserted that the current government, which he described as being formed under Form 47, lacks legitimacy and does not reflect the will of the people. He called for the restoration of the provincial autonomy as outlined in Pakistan's 18th Amendment, stressing that the provincial administrative powers should be returned from federal institutions to the provincial governments.

"The only way out of this crisis is through holding quick and transparent elections," Achakzai said. He added that the growing interference by the federal government in Balochistan and other provinces is raising serious questions about the country's commitment to provincial autonomy. Achakzai's comments come at a time when concerns about the weakening of provincial powers have intensified, particularly in the face of rising political instability and security challenges. He also warned that Pakistan’s internal issues were contributing to a broader regional crisis, particularly in Afghanistan. According to Achakzai, if Pakistan demonstrated sincerity, many of the challenges facing Afghanistan, including terrorism and instability, could be addressed.

He estimated that 60 percent of Afghanistan's problems could be resolved through genuine cooperation and improved relations between the two countries. The Aman Jirga, which was hosted by Nawab Ayaz Khan Jogezai and Abdul Rahim Ziaratwal, brought together leaders and activists from across the region to discuss solutions to the growing security concerns, particularly the rising tide of terrorism affecting Pakistan’s Pashtun community. In his speech, Achakzai condemned the daily acts of terrorism and the resulting loss of innocent lives, particularly in areas like Quetta, where recent attacks have targeted civilians, including at the Quetta railway station. "Parliament has become helpless in the face of this daily bloodshed.

After each terrorist attack, the people face even greater hardship, and it is clear that the Pakhtuns, as well as all Pakistanis, need to unite and take decisive action to secure their future," Achakzai stated. The Aman Jirga also called for a stronger unity among the Pashtun people to address the growing challenges. The event marked a significant moment of solidarity as participants expressed their collective determination to pursue peace and security through grassroots efforts, such as the Jirga, rather than relying on ineffective government policies. Achakzai's remarks underscore the urgency felt by many leaders in the region, who believe that only through genuine democratic processes and a respect for provincial autonomy can Pakistan overcome its current political and security challenges.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan