Azm-e-Istehkam: Achakzai threatens to take issue to International Court of Justice

Pashtun leader emphasises necessity for decisions in country to reflect clear majority of people’s will

Mahmood Khan Achakzai, leader of the Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party and the opposition alliance Tahreek-e-Tahafuz Aain Pakistan, has issued a stark warning against being compelled to take their grievances against Operation Azm-e-Istehkam to the International Court of Justice.

Speaking at a jirga organised by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) in Peshawar on Wednesday, Achakzai emphasised the necessity for the decisions in the country to reflect the clear majority of the people’s will, which is currently not the case. 

Achakzai recalled that when the constitutional amendment to merge FATA with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) was presented in Parliament, it was not included in the official agenda.

He argued that with peace, the region could attract tourists from around the world, noting that K-P is a significant center for Buddhism. He stated that the people of K-P are hospitable, which would further boost tourism.

Also Read: PTI opposes Operation Azm-e-Istehkam in K-P jirga

He pointed out the exploitation since Pakistan's formation, mentioning the thousands of miles of railway lines consumed, marble from Mohmand, and the gold-filled lands of Waziristan. He urged President Zardari to ensure that the natural resources benefits go to the local people.

He further asserted that if given the authority, they could settle the International Monetary Fund (IMF) loans. He expressed readiness to negotiate with Afghanistan for electricity and gas supplies, stating that achieving self-sufficiency in electricity and gas would help clear the IMF debt.

Achakzai stated that the blessings mentioned in Surah Ar-Rahman of the Quran are present in the tribal areas and that the Pashtuns have rightful ownership over these natural resources. 

He alleged that operations in the tribal districts are being carried out to seize control of these natural resources. He asserted that they had never been conquered and were settled on their own land, and wished to live in the country but not as slaves.