ISLAMABAD: A heated exchange unfolded in the National Assembly on Saturday as Opposition Leader Mahmood Khan Achakzai raised concerns over state policies, governance, and security issues, while Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif defended the government’s performance and promised a detailed response to the opposition’s criticism at an appropriate time.
The debate took place during discussions on the federal budget for fiscal year 2026-27, with Speaker Ayaz Sadiq presiding over the session and Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb present in the House.
Budget Debate Begins Amid Quorum Shortfall
The National Assembly session started with a shortage of members, as only 52 lawmakers were present against the required quorum of 84 members.
Despite the shortfall, proceedings continued, and Speaker Ayaz Sadiq announced the establishment of a dedicated budget desk at the Parliament House Library to assist lawmakers with budget-related information and analysis.
The speaker also criticized Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) MNA Iqbal Afridi over alleged misconduct and inappropriate behavior, stating that parliamentary decorum must be maintained at all times.
Achakzai Criticizes Policies on Balochistan and Pashtun Issues
Opening his speech, Mahmood Khan Achakzai strongly rejected narratives linking Pashtuns with terrorism and condemned what he described as discrimination against ethnic communities.
“We condemn those who say that Pashtuns are terrorists,” Achakzai told the House.
He stressed that discrimination based on race, language, ethnicity, or color was unacceptable and contrary to democratic principles.
The opposition leader also highlighted historical grievances in Balochistan, referring to events involving Nawab Nauroz Khan, Ataullah Mengal, and Nawab Akbar Bugti.
According to Achakzai, unresolved historical issues continue to shape political tensions in the province and require sincere political engagement.
Questions Raised on Governance and Rights
Achakzai accused successive governments of failing to adequately address concerns in Balochistan, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, and Sindh.
He argued that these provinces had often been treated unfairly and called for greater respect for constitutional rights and provincial autonomy.
The opposition leader also raised concerns regarding the handling of political protests, alleging excessive force against demonstrators and criticizing what he described as restrictions on democratic freedoms.
Referring to the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) and Waziristan, Achakzai questioned policies adopted after the region’s merger into Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.
He emphasized that local populations should be actively involved in decisions affecting their regions and called for efforts to avoid further conflict.
Appeal for Political Reconciliation
Despite his criticism, Achakzai adopted a conciliatory tone toward the conclusion of his address.
He recalled past efforts to bridge political divides between major parties and proposed greater political cooperation to address national challenges.
The opposition leader suggested that political forces should work together through consensus-building mechanisms and dialogue.
He also questioned electoral practices, asking whether democratic principles were being fully respected in the country’s political processes.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Responds
Responding to Achakzai’s speech, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said he had listened carefully to all the points raised but would provide a detailed reply at a later stage.
“I will respond in detail at an appropriate occasion,” the prime minister told the House.
He emphasized that while political disagreements are natural in a democracy, all stakeholders must remain united in protecting Pakistan’s interests and strengthening national institutions.
“Any sacrifice for Pakistan is too small,” he remarked.
PM Defends Government’s Record in Balochistan
Rejecting criticism regarding provincial rights, Shehbaz Sharif said the government remains committed to ensuring fair distribution of resources among all provinces.
The prime minister highlighted several development initiatives in Balochistan, including:
- Increased provincial financial allocations
- The Reko Diq mining project
- A Rs75 billion solarization program for farmers
- Infrastructure projects including a dual carriageway valued at approximately Rs300 billion
According to Shehbaz, these initiatives demonstrate the federal government’s commitment to the development and prosperity of Balochistan.
Focus on Counterterrorism Efforts
Addressing security concerns, the prime minister said Pakistan continues to face threats from externally supported terrorist groups operating in various regions.
He defended measures such as border fencing and security operations, describing them as necessary steps to protect national security.
Shehbaz paid tribute to members of the armed forces, police, and law enforcement agencies who have lost their lives in the fight against terrorism.
“Our martyrs leave their own children orphaned to save the nation’s children,” he said.
The prime minister urged lawmakers to honor the sacrifices made by security personnel across the country.
PTI Says Questions Remain Unanswered
Following the prime minister’s remarks, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan briefly addressed the House and said the opposition’s concerns had not been fully addressed.
He argued that several important questions raised during the debate remained unanswered.
Speaker Ayaz Sadiq subsequently instructed members to keep their remarks concise and continue the budget discussion according to parliamentary procedures.
Budget Debate Continues
The exchange between Achakzai and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif highlighted broader political disagreements over governance, provincial rights, security policies, and economic management.
As the National Assembly continues deliberations on the federal budget, lawmakers from both government and opposition benches are expected to intensify debate over fiscal priorities, governance issues, and the country’s future policy direction.
Political observers believe the discussions could shape parliamentary dynamics in the coming weeks as both sides seek to influence public opinion and legislative outcomes.
