Former Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi has firmly rejected any alliance with PTI, warning against unconstitutional moves and emphasizing that the country’s issues cannot be resolved under the current government, which he describes as unelected and illegitimate.
Speaking on a private news channel stated that as long as political division and turmoil persist in Pakistan, no challenge can be effectively tackled. He also addressed the situation in Balochistan, asserting that the province has enough resources to resolve its own issues. “If Balochistan is managed properly, the income of every person there could surpass that of people in all other provinces of Pakistan,” he said. “The province must be governed according to the constitution, with its resources and rights allocated fairly,” he added.
When asked about military action in Balochistan, Abbasi acknowledged its necessity in the face of terrorism and extremism, but he emphasized that it cannot be seen as a permanent solution. “Military action may be necessary, but the key to a lasting solution lies in dialogue. The state must be prepared, but it can never lose control of its authority,” he remarked.
Regarding the All Parties Conference (APC), Abbasi dismissed its potential, asserting that it would not provide a solution. “No one will attend an APC when the government is unelected and lacks both legal and moral legitimacy,” he said. He further criticized the paralysis of both the provincial and federal governments, particularly in districts like Dera Ismail Khan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. “Those with weapons do not listen to APC discussions,” he warned, highlighting the dangerous influence of armed groups in the region.
When asked about the prospect of PTI joining the opposition alliance, Abbasi firmly stated, “I stand with those who advocate for the rule of law and the constitution. I will not support those promoting division or unconstitutional actions.” He continued, stressing that protests within the legal framework can be effective, but actions outside the law only lead to further problems. “The real issue is that the government is preventing people from protesting within their legal rights,” he added.
Abbasi made it clear that he would not be part of any opposition alliance involving unconstitutional actions. “I am not part of it. This is a straightforward matter. I do not support any unconstitutional actions. However, I fully support our constitutional right to protest,” he said. He further warned, “If the plan is to form a mob and attack the capital, I am not with you.”
Concluding his remarks, Abbasi stated that governments that are not truly representative of the people are afraid of the public. “This government fears the people because it lacks their mandate,” he concluded.
