Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly Mehmood Khan Achakzai on Wednesday filed a petition in the Balochistan High Court (BHC) seeking the nullification of a case registered against him in Chaman over a “controversial” speech, declaring it in violation of law.
The FIR, registered earlier this week, alleges Achakzai targeted state institutions in a seditious manner during a recent speech.
“The establishment of a true democratic society is essential for national progress,” he told media at the BHC after submitting his petition. The opposition leader, who is chairman of Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP) as well as the head of the Tehreek Tahaffuz-e-Ayin Pakistan, regretted that interference in the electoral process had weakened democratic institutions in the country.
He maintained that people advocating for constitutional supremacy and democratic principles were often subjected to criticism.
Highlighting the need for a system based on genuine public representation, he said the country needed a truly elected Parliament that acted in the national interest by taking ownership of key national decisions, particularly related to internal and foreign policy. “We will not overcome reoccurring crises unless we establish a transparent mechanism and ensure independent policymaking,” he said.
Achakzai noted the Constitution of Pakistan resulted from a long political struggle and consensus, adding stopping repeated interference in the electoral process was essential for democracy.
On the FIR, he said it was not in accordance with constitutional and legal requirements and should therefore be declared null and void.