Opposition parties have resolved to proceed with their two-day Grand Alliance Conference, starting today, emphasizing the need to uphold constitutional supremacy.
The decision followed a high-level meeting of opposition leaders, including Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Secretary General Salman Akram Raja, Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) chief Sahibzada Hamid Raza, Awam Pakistan’s Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, and Majlis Wahdat-e-Muslimeen (MWM) leader Nasir Shirazi. The gathering took place at the residence of Tehreek Tahafuz Ayeen-e-Pakistan head Mahmood Khan Achakzai.
Opposition Vows to Challenge ‘Illegitimate’ Rule
“We will hold these illegitimate rulers accountable in every street. This assembly is not legitimate, and we do not recognize it,” Achakzai declared, expressing distrust in the current legislature.
The opposition’s unity comes after multiple rounds of negotiations between PTI and the ruling coalition failed to yield results. In response, PTI has initiated a political outreach campaign as per the directives of its founder, Imran Khan. As part of this drive, TTAP leaders recently visited Sindh to meet with the Grand Democratic Alliance (GDA), with both sides agreeing to work together for constitutional supremacy and the independence of the judiciary and parliament.
They also agreed to establish committees to strategize their next steps in pursuit of their shared objectives.
Political Instability and Democratic Concerns
A statement issued after the opposition’s meeting highlighted the country’s deep-rooted crises, describing them as a cause of persistent instability.
“Pakistan’s history bears witness to recurring crises. We initially aimed to build a prosperous and democratic state, but interference by undemocratic forces, institutional conflicts, corruption, and a weak political system have dragged the country into an abyss of instability,” the statement read.
The opposition leaders also raised concerns over the legitimacy of the 2024 general elections, alleging that they undermined the democratic process and disregarded the people’s mandate. “Pakistan is at a crossroads where moving forward seems impossible. Every passing day is deepening the nation’s frustration and uncertainty,” the statement added.
Opposition Leaders Speak Out
Addressing the gathering, Achakzai asserted that those violating the Constitution had evaded accountability for too long. “Whether they like it or not, we must break this tradition,” he stressed.
Awam Pakistan Convener Shahid Khaqan Abbasi reiterated the opposition’s stance, saying, “This government does not represent the people. It is illegitimate and fears the Constitution.” He added that discussions at the conference would focus on key constitutional and economic issues, with participation from political leaders and intellectuals nationwide.
SIC chief Hamid Raza emphasized the opposition’s determination: “No force can silence the voices advocating for democracy and human rights. No matter the obstacles, the national conference will take place.”
PTI’s Salman Akram Raja also reaffirmed their commitment to exposing human rights violations. “The government may try to disrupt the event, but we will hold the conference no matter what,” he stated.
