Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly, Mahmood Khan Achakzai, has said there is nothing wrong if Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif approaches him for dialogue, calling such engagement a sign of political maturity. He stressed the need for political leaders to acknowledge past mistakes and move forward for the sake of democracy and stability.
Achakzai made these remarks while speaking to the media after meeting Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman in Islamabad. He was accompanied by a delegation during the meeting, which focused on the current political situation and opposition strategy.
Speaking after the meeting, Achakzai said that when political leaders sit together, discussions naturally revolve around politics and democratic processes. He emphasized that dialogue and peaceful political engagement are essential components of a functioning democracy.
“When political people sit together, politics is discussed,” he said. “We have decided to protest peacefully in a democratic manner.”
Achakzai reiterated that there should be no hesitation in engaging with political opponents and that such interaction should not be viewed negatively. Referring to the prime minister, he said that Shehbaz Sharif visiting opposition leaders should be considered a positive gesture rather than a weakness.
“There is nothing wrong if Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif comes to see me,” Achakzai said. “This reflects political maturity. We must admit our mistakes and move forward.”
Commenting on security concerns, Achakzai said that postponing the traditional Basant celebrations due to terrorism was a sensible decision. He stated that public safety should always take precedence over festivities, particularly in the prevailing security environment.
“Given the threat of terrorism, postponing Basant is a good decision,” he said, adding again that acknowledging mistakes and correcting course is necessary for progress.
The meeting between Achakzai and Maulana Fazlur Rehman comes amid ongoing political tensions following the general elections held on February 8. Opposition parties have repeatedly raised concerns over the election results and the overall electoral process.
JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, speaking on the occasion, reaffirmed his party’s stance on the election outcome. He said his party continues to reject the February 8 election results and is demanding fresh elections.
“We are standing by our demands and reject the results of February 8,” Fazlur Rehman said. “We demand new elections.”
He added that despite their reservations and demands, his party has shown restraint in its political activities. Fazlur Rehman said that whenever his party has planned a rally or procession, it has chosen to cancel it in the larger interest of the country.
“If our party has announced any rally or procession, we have canceled it,” he said, indicating a cautious approach in the current political climate.
Fazlur Rehman further stated that opposition parties have pursued legal avenues to challenge the election results. According to him, appeals filed by the opposition are still pending before courts and election tribunals.
“To this day, opposition appeals are pending in courts and tribunals,” he said. “The government should acknowledge its failure.”
Both leaders emphasized the importance of democratic norms, peaceful protest, and political dialogue as the country navigates a period of political uncertainty. Their statements suggest an effort by opposition figures to maintain pressure through constitutional and legal means rather than street agitation.
The interaction between Achakzai and Fazlur Rehman also reflects broader coordination among opposition parties, particularly on issues related to electoral legitimacy and governance. While opposition leaders remain firm on their demands, they have also signaled a willingness to engage politically and avoid escalation.
Analysts view Achakzai’s remarks about engagement with the prime minister as an attempt to promote dialogue over confrontation. His comments underscore the argument that political reconciliation and acknowledgment of past errors are necessary for democratic stability.
At the same time, the opposition’s continued rejection of the election results highlights the ongoing challenges facing the political system. With legal cases still unresolved and political tensions lingering, calls for dialogue coexist with demands for accountability and reform.
