Mahmood Khan Achakzai, chief of Tehreek Tahafuz Ayeen-e-Pakistan (TTAP), has been officially notified as the new opposition leader. The National Assembly Speaker, Ayaz Sadiq, issued the notification on January 16, 2026, filling a post left vacant for months.
Nomination by Imran Khan
Achakzai, who also leads the Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP), was nominated by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan. The nomination followed the disqualification of former NA opposition leader Omar Ayub in the May 9 case. This appointment restores leadership in the lower house, ensuring opposition representation in parliamentary proceedings.
Official Notification and Rules
The notification cited Rule 39 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the National Assembly, 2007. It confirmed Mahmood Khan Achakzai as the Leader of the Opposition, effective immediately from January 16, 2026. Acting NA Secretary Saeed Ahmad Maitla issued the formal declaration.
Opposition Delegation Meets NA Speaker
Before the notification, an opposition lawmakers’ delegation met with Speaker Sadiq in his chamber. The delegation included PTI lawmakers Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, Junaid Akbar, Aamir Dogar, Shahram Khan Tarakai, Latif Khosa, and Jamal Ahsan Khan. They discussed the nomination and parliamentary procedures, paving the way for Achakzai’s appointment.
Achakzai’s Role and Expectations
As opposition leader, Achakzai will represent key parties in the National Assembly and coordinate legislative strategy. He will also act as a critical voice on government policies and oversee parliamentary debates from the opposition’s perspective. Observers note that his leadership is expected to bring cohesion among diverse opposition factions.
Political Context
Omar Ayub was disqualified in August 2025 due to his conviction in the May 9 case. Since then, the opposition leadership post remained vacant, affecting parliamentary proceedings. Achakzai’s appointment restores formal opposition representation, crucial for legislative balance and debate.
Transitional Dynamics
The new opposition leader is expected to engage with government officials, parliamentary committees, and international observers. His role will influence key debates on legislation, governance accountability, and national policy oversight. Political analysts emphasize that Achakzai’s appointment may reshape opposition strategies in the coming months.
