We Want a Democratic ‘New Pakistan’: Achakzai Tells Lawyers in Karachi

KARACHI: National Assembly Opposition Leader Mehmood Khan Achakzai on Monday called for the creation of a “new Pakistan” based on democracy, rule of law, and constitutional supremacy, while addressing lawyers at the Sindh High Court Bar Association in Karachi.

Achakzai, who is visiting Sindh with leaders of the opposition alliance Tehreek Tahafuz-i-Ayeen Pakistan (TTAP), said democracy had repeatedly been undermined in the country, leaving people deprived of justice and basic rights. He stressed that Pakistan must be governed by the Constitution, not by force or arbitrary authority, and warned that injustice only deepens national divisions.

Referring to Pakistan’s political and economic challenges, he said the country resembled “a critically ill patient” due to prolonged misgovernance. He questioned the lack of transparency in the use of funds obtained through international loans and demanded accountability.

The opposition leader also raised concerns over public safety, citing the Gul Plaza fire in Karachi, and called for strict punishment for those responsible for negligence. He reiterated that political differences should not cross the bounds of respect and urged equal treatment for all ethnicities and provinces.

TTAP leaders Allama Raja Nasir Abbas and Asad Qaiser also addressed the gathering, criticizing alleged election irregularities, weakening of democratic institutions, and interference in the judiciary. They urged lawyers and citizens to support peaceful protests planned for February 8, emphasizing that the movement aims to restore constitutional order, judicial independence, and public trust.

The speakers maintained that the protest would remain non-violent and appealed to the public to stand against oppression through democratic means.

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