The parallax view: ‘Conspiracy against democracy will benefit no one’

Asfandyar says Imran’s new sit-in will fuel political impasse further

PESHAWAR: As Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf chief Imran Khan packs up for yet another sit-in – this time against the Election Commission of Pakistan, there are many who are continually advising against the decision.

Amongst those is Asfandyar Wali Khan, the Awami National Party supremo. In a statement issued by the party on Saturday, he said another sit-in will only add to the political polarisation, which Asfandyar termed as doctored.

“Now that election tribunals have de-seated key MNAs, there remains no excuse for another prolonged protest.”

The ANP chief accused Imran for conspiring against democracy which he said will benefit no one. “Can Pakistan afford the new battle lines that are being drawn?”

Asfandyar said the Afghan peace process is on the verge of a total collapse which will have dire repercussions for all stakeholders. He said our relations with India have also hit low ebb and the country will not be able to overcome these challenges if our own house is divided.



He urged Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to take all parties on board over the issues and take the initiative of putting out the fire.

“We all know the terrorists are down but not out.” Asfandyar said the assassination of Punjab home minister Shuja Khanzada proves the militants are still capable of hitting high-profile targets. He said progressive parties and leaders who stand against the terror narrative are bearing the brunt of their position. “Zarb-e-Azb is in its decisive phase as the security forces clear Shawal and Datta Khel in North Waziristan Agency.”

Talking about the ANP’s issues of focus, Asfandyar said reforms in the tribal areas and the repatriation of all displaced families are crucial for bringing normalcy to the region. “The government had promised to arrange the dignified return of NWA tribespeople only after we pressed it,” he said, adding the promise is yet to be fulfilled. “They have totally ignored the 0.1 million tribespeople who crossed the Durand Line into Afghanistan after the commencement of military offensives. The ANP will not tolerate indifference towards them.”

He said the party is in favour of transparent accountability but added evidence should be presented in courts. “Let the law take its course.”

Published in The Express Tribune, August 30^th, 2015.