Achakzai calls for Jirga on Balochistan security crisis

Mahmood Khan Achakzai, opposition leader in Pakistan's National Assembly and chairman of the Pakhtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP), has convened a critical three-day jirga in Quetta. Scheduled from August 29 to 31, the gathering aims to confront the worsening security situation in the Balochistan province. Achakzai expressed grave concern, stating the issue grows more serious and dangerous daily. The proposed jirga intends to unite political figures, tribal elders, and other key stakeholders to deliberate on the escalating insecurity, which includes frequent highway attacks, trade disruptions, and the targeted killings of civilians, political workers, judges, and lawyers.

“

The issue was becoming increasingly serious and dangerous with each passing day.

Achakzai voiced strong criticism of the government's perceived failure to restore peace and protect citizens' lives and property. He highlighted the severe impact of frequent attacks on businesses and transportation, leaving many without livelihoods. The PkMAP chief also questioned the limited role of parliamentary bodies in addressing public concerns and alleged restrictions on media freedom. Furthermore, he condemned civilian killings in Kashmir and called for solidarity with the Kashmiri people. Achakzai opposed any proposed division of districts in Balochistan's Pashtun-majority areas, warning it could create further complications.

“

transporters could suspend operations if such incidents continued and urged the government to ensure the safety of transport and trade routes.

During a press conference in Quetta, Achakzai also announced nationwide protest rallies for August 5, marking three years since the imprisonment of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. He specifically addressed the targeting of Pashtun-owned commercial vehicles, including buses and oil tankers, in Balochistan. Achakzai warned that transporters might suspend operations if these attacks persist, urging the government to guarantee the safety of transport and trade routes. He also raised concerns about the killing of laborers and criticized the authorities' response to security incidents, questioning the lack of accountability for senior officials. The leader further alleged that extortion demands are being made against goods vehicle drivers on national highways, calling for effective action from the government and security institutions.

“

extortion was being demanded from drivers of goods vehicles travelling on national highways and called on the government and security institutions to take effective action.