Achakzai Rules Out Government Talks Without Meeting Imran Khan
ZHOB, PAKISTAN — WEB DESK: Pakistan’s opposition leader Mahmood Khan Achakzai has declared that he will not participate in formal negotiations with the federal government unless he is allowed to consult jailed former prime minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan.
Achakzai, who serves as Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly and chairman of the Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP), made the statement while addressing a public gathering at Baz Muhammad Shaheed Ground in Zhob, Balochistan.
He argued that meaningful political dialogue requires both the government and opposition to have equal opportunities to consult their respective leadership before making important decisions.
The opposition leader maintained that negotiations could not deliver practical results if representatives were unable to seek guidance from their political leadership.
He made it clear that his participation in formal talks would depend on being granted a meeting with Imran Khan.
The statement introduces a specific condition for Achakzai’s involvement in efforts to resolve the continuing political differences between the government and opposition.
Achakzai also urged political parties to develop a shared national agenda addressing Pakistan’s economic difficulties, political challenges and broader governance concerns.
He called for cooperation among political forces despite their differences, arguing that national issues required collective consideration rather than exclusively party-based approaches.
Turning to constitutional matters, the PkMAP chairman called for fresh appointments to the Election Commission of Pakistan, including the position of Chief Election Commissioner, through procedures established under the Constitution.
He emphasised the importance of following constitutional requirements when filling positions as the terms of existing officeholders expire.
Achakzai also addressed regional affairs, welcoming international diplomatic initiatives aimed at resolving issues involving Afghanistan.
He expressed support for efforts to establish lasting peace and stability in the region and highlighted the importance of economic development alongside diplomatic engagement.
His remarks come as government-opposition relations remain strained, with access to Imran Khan emerging as a significant issue in discussions over renewed political negotiations.
Achakzai did not announce a date for fresh talks, and it remains unclear whether arrangements will be made for the meeting he has requested.
