If he exceeds constitutional limits, he won’t be given a chance to speak in the house. Mahmood Achakzai’s biggest challenge will be keeping PTI’s independent members in check.
According to details, in the National Assembly today (Monday) evening, its first chadar-wearing Leader of the Opposition will assume his responsibilities. His appointment came after much controversy. Mahmood Khan Achakzai, who was previously chairman of his Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party, has recently become chairman of Tehreek-e-Tahafuz-e-Ain. His party name doesn’t include “Pakistan”—he’s its sole parliamentary member.
Parliamentary sources told Jang/The News on Saturday afternoon that Mahmood Khan Achakzai has been clearly told that if he exceeds the limits (parameters) set by the Constitution, he won’t be given a chance to speak in the house. He associates himself with centrifugal forces that champion so-called nationalism but have never gained ground in public or elected forums.
Sources say that as soon as he assumes the Leader of the Opposition seat, he’ll clash with the chairmanship where Sardar Ayaz Sadiq has been firm. Relations between the two aren’t ideal, though Sardar Ayaz Sadiq has never named Mahmood Achakzai in criticism. He has made it clear there’s no written rule exempting the Leader of the Opposition from restrictions or guaranteeing them speaking time whenever they want. He has firmly messaged that he won’t allow any member (including the Leader of the Opposition) to speak against the Constitution, judiciary, armed forces, or other respected institutions. He will respect the right to protest.
