Islamabad: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders and members of the National Assembly - former Speaker Asad Qaiser, Chief Whip Malik Amir Dogar, Prince Nawaz Khan Alai, and Shahram Tarakai - held a joint press conference in Islamabad, announcing that the party has formally submitted a request for the appointment of Mehmood Khan Achakzai as Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly.
Speaking to the media, Asad Qaiser said the position of Opposition Leader had been vacant following the disqualification of Umar Ayub Khan, and PTI has now officially nominated Mehmood Khan Achakzai for the slot. He expressed hope that upon the Speaker's return to the country, the notification would be issued without delay.
'Mehmood Khan Achakzai is a senior and respected politician. We expect that no undemocratic means will be used in this process. The opposition leader's seat should not remain vacant,' Qaiser stated.
Commenting on Pakistan-Afghanistan relations, Qaiser said both countries must exercise patience and perseverance to improve bilateral ties. 'Trade routes between the two countries should be reopened and regional trade expanded to Central Asian states. PTI has always maintained that Afghanistan is a brotherly country, and we wish to strengthen relations further,' he said.
Criticizing the federal government, Qaiser said the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police had been provided with 'non-functional' vehicles. 'Even a federal minister acknowledged this issue, but I do not wish to name him,' he added. He further said that under the NFC Award, the province was entitled to three percent of the national divisible pool, but not a single rupee had yet been released.
Speaking on the occasion, Chief Whip Malik Amir Dogar said that the nomination of Mehmood Khan Achakzai had been submitted with the signatures of 74 members of the National Assembly. 'Achakzai's name carries significance for the survival and stability of democracy. The decision reflects the consensus of our leadership, and all members have endorsed it,' he said.
Dogar added that Mehmood Khan Achakzai was also PTI's candidate for the presidency, enjoying the party's full support.
In conclusion, Asad Qaiser said that consultations with Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI) were underway. 'The Chief Whip has been tasked with contacting JUI leadership to ensure greater coordination among opposition parties for the promotion of democratic values,' he added.