Opp leader strikes conciliatory note in maiden NA speech

Achakzai vows to strengthen parliament, Constitution

ISLAMABAD:

Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly (NA) Mahmood Khan Achakzai offered unconditional support to the government for initiatives aimed at strengthening democracy, parliament and the Constitution in his maiden speech in the role on Monday while also calling for visits to PTI founder Imran Khan to be allowed.

The Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party chief was formally appointed as the NA opposition leader last week, filling a post that had remained vacant since August 7. NA Speaker Ayaz Sadiq summoned PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan and the Chief Whip of the Opposition, Aamir Dogar, to his chamber to issue the official notification.

In his speech, Achakzai stressed that the House should serve as the true centre of power. "The focus must be on the supremacy of parliament and the Constitution, with internal, external, and economic policies formulated within parliamentary frameworks," he said.

He also called for the immediate commencement of dialogue between the government and opposition parties, urging authorities to facilitate meetings with Imran, adding that he and the opposition were ready to assume responsibility for initiating negotiations with PTI and other opposition parties.

The opposition leader in NA underscored the importance of ethical governance, citing that Islamic principles prohibited supporting wrongdoing. "We aim to make this assembly a source of power. We must uphold honourable conduct and protect the sanctity of our homes and families," he added.

He urged that constructive initiatives in the assembly, including policies on domestic, foreign, and economic matters, receive full support. "Our votes are available for positive legislation. We should not engage in discussions or actions we cannot justify before our families," he said.

Highlighting his independent political record, Achakzai said he had supported the PPP and PML-N in difficult times but had never compromised his principles for personal gain. "I have always stood by the principles I believe in and have never violated my oath," he noted.

Achakzai also offered the full support of opposition votes in the assembly, provided that a conducive environment for dialogue was created. He stressed the need to reduce political tensions, release political prisoners and encourage parties such as the PPP to re-engage in parliamentary politics under the principles of democracy and respecting the sanctity of the ballot.

On security and regional stability, he noted that Pakistan faced significant challenges.

"Our military and police are strong, and no one can abduct citizens with impunity. We must have confidence in our people," he said.

Achakzai warned that the region was under threat from external powers seeking to turn it into a battleground, adding that past counter-terrorism operations had displaced thousands.

Reiterating his commitment to non-violence, he said, "I advocate peaceful resolution and will continue to do so. Former Fata has contributed significantly to national security, and local populations must retain primary authority in their regions."

Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr Tariq Fazal Chaudhry welcomed Achakzai's appointment, describing him as a reliable partner during challenging times.

"We appreciate the points raised by Achakzai regarding dialogue," he said, adding that the government remained ready to discuss political issues, including matters in Balochistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.

PPP Chief Whip Ijaz Jakhrani also praised Achakzai's speech, highlighting the historically strong democratic and political relationship between the opposition leader and the party. Jakhrani called for negotiations between political parties to resolve pressing issues within the parliamentary framework.