Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has expressed concern over recent remarks made by Opposition Leader Mahmood Khan Achakzai regarding the army, prompting the party leadership to publicly clarify its official stance in the National Assembly.
According to party sources, Achakzai reiterated his position about the military during a recent session of the National Assembly. In response, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan immediately sought the floor to present the party’s official position, a move described by insiders as unusual but necessary under the circumstances. The development reportedly caused unease within party ranks, as Achakzai holds the position of Leader of the Opposition with PTI’s backing.
The situation unfolded after Defence Minister Khawaja Asif referred to Achakzai’s earlier statement in which he had allegedly described the army as representing “four districts of Punjab.” The defence minister termed the remarks inappropriate and dangerous, stating that such statements about national institutions should not be made.
Responding on the assembly floor, Achakzai said he had maintained the same position since the 1990s. He neither denied nor withdrew the statement cited by the defence minister and emphasized that he stood by his views.
Following his remarks, Barrister Gohar addressed the house and stressed that terrorism should not be politicized and that all political forces must adopt a unified narrative to send a clear message to hostile elements. He referred to elements operating from India and Afghanistan and underscored the importance of national cohesion.
Without naming Achakzai directly, Barrister Gohar reaffirmed PTI’s position on the armed forces, stating that the army belongs to the nation and the country belongs to its people. He highlighted the sacrifices of military martyrs and described the party’s stance on the armed forces as clear and unambiguous.
Internal sources said that Barrister Gohar later discussed the matter with party lawmakers and conveyed that such remarks should have been avoided. A senior party figure noted that while differences may exist within the opposition alliance, statements regarding national institutions, particularly the military, must align with national interest.
PTI leadership reportedly acted swiftly to ensure that Achakzai’s comments were not perceived as the party’s official position. When contacted for comment, Barrister Gohar stated that PTI’s stance has already been made clear and is part of the official record of the National Assembly.
