Mahmood Khan Achakzai, chief of the Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP), said that the release of imprisoned former prime minister Imran Khan would reduce Pakistan’s “political temperature.”
Achakzai emphasized that Imran Khan, as the leader of Parliament’s largest party, should be freed. “He won’t run away and come to Parliament. The temperature will go down when he comes out,” he stated. Achakzai referenced a recent United Nations panel’s concerns over Khan’s imprisonment. Last week, the Geneva-based UN Working Group on Arbitrary Detention called Khan’s detention arbitrary and a violation of international law, recommending his immediate release and compensation.
Achakzai stressed that Khan’s release should be unconditional, asserting it as his right. He added that holding negotiations with a prisoner is not feasible and urged for Khan to be freed.
Additionally, Achakzai advocated for an all-parties conference to address national issues, including experts, traders, journalists, and potentially the establishment. He drew parallels to historical instances where political rivals collaborated for the greater good, highlighting the necessity of unity in addressing Pakistan’s challenges. Achakzai criticized the National Accountability Bureau and called for its abolition, arguing it has been misused for political purposes.
Discussing the recent US House resolution calling for an investigation into Pakistan’s February elections, Achakzai expressed concerns over its implications for Pakistan’s new deal with the International Monetary Fund. He noted that such international scrutiny could complicate the agreement.
Achakzai also leads the Tehreek-e-Tahaffuz-e-Aayen-Pakistan (TTAP), a movement advocating for the supremacy of the Constitution and the rule of law. He described the movement as an SOS for Pakistan, emphasizing the need for constitutional adherence to empower the people in electing leaders and shaping policies.
Achakzai called for a unified plan of action and fresh elections to address Pakistan’s pressing issues, urging all political forces to collaborate for the nation’s salvation.
