The political deadlock over the position of Leader of the Opposition in Pakistan’s National Assembly appears to be nearing a resolution, following key meetings on Wednesday. Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq has reportedly assured the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) that a formal notification on the appointment will be issued today on Wedensday.
PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, speaking after his meeting with the Speaker, stated unequivocally that his party’s nominee for the post is Mahmood Khan Achakzai, the chief of the Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP). “There is no other person for the opposition leader than Mahmood Khan Achakzai,” Gohar asserted, adding that no other candidate was discussed in the Speaker’s office. This declaration seeks to quell any speculation about internal party disagreement.
The PTI has intensified its pressure on the Speaker’s office to expedite the process. Senior PTI leader Aamir Dogar also submitted a formal letter to Speaker Sadiq, demanding the “immediate issuance” of the notification. Dogar emphasized that there is “no grouping in the party” and that Achakzai remains the PTI’s unified choice.
Meanwhile, former National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser, another senior PTI figure, expressed optimism after his own meeting with Speaker Sadiq. Talking to journalist Shahzeb Khanzada on Geo News’ program “Aaj,” Qaiser stated, “The issue of the opposition leader has been resolved,” and urged for the notification to be issued today. He also framed the party’s ongoing political strategy, clarifying that their call for protests on February 8 is not an end but “the beginning” of a long struggle. Qaiser announced that the opposition alliance plans to visit Karachi soon, aiming for “meaningful talks” to forge a new “democratic charter.”
