ISLAMABAD:
Top opposition leaders convened on Tuesday night to discuss the political situation in the country and explore the possibility of forming a grand alliance against the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N)-led coalition government.
This was the first significant meeting of opposition leaders after their failed talks with the ruling PML-N-led coalition. The opposition unanimously declared the current government as non-representative and imposed on the people without their consent.
The key leaders agreed that the only solution to the nation’s political, economic, and security challenges was holding free and fair elections under a neutral election commission. A statement issued after the meeting emphasized that new elections were critical to addressing the country’s ongoing crises.
Regarding the formation of a grand opposition alliance, a senior opposition figure mentioned that the meeting marked the first step, and further deliberations would follow to finalize the details. Major developments were expected soon.
The meeting was held at former National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser’s residence and attended by leaders from various opposition parties, including Mahmood Khan Achakzai (Tehreek Tahafuz-e-Aeen Pakistan), Maulana Fazlur Rehman (Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam), Shahid Khaqan Abbasi (Awam Pakistan Party), and others.
JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman voiced strong criticism against the February 2024 elections, calling them rigged and stating that the current government lacked a legitimate mandate. He insisted that fresh elections were the only way forward. Fazl also condemned the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) for failing to conduct fair elections, suggesting that if the ECP was truly independent, its officials should resign.
Former Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi echoed the call for new elections, asserting that the present government was imposed on the people. He also stressed the need for the release of political prisoners and the repeal of controversial laws like the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA).
The opposition parties issued a joint statement demanding an end to political repression, the immediate release of political prisoners, and the repeal of PECA. The statement also expressed concern over rising terrorism in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
A subcommittee was formed to develop a course of action, with plans to consult party leadership before finalizing recommendations. As the first anniversary of the general elections approaches, the opposition is focused on forming a united front to challenge the ruling alliance and apply pressure on the government.
