Achakzai warns of possible governor’s rule in Sindh over water and mineral resources

Opposition Leader in the National Assembly Mahmood Khan Achakzai on Wednesday warned that governor’s rule could be imposed next in Sindh over what he called the “occupation of water, mines and streams”.

Addressing the National Assembly, Achakzai criticised the imposition of governor’s rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), urging the federal government to respect provincial rights and resources.

He said KP’s “mistake” was that it had protected itself with the support of its people. Drawing a comparison with the events surrounding the creation of Bangladesh, he cautioned against decisions that could deepen tensions between the state and its people.

Achakzai also criticised the government for depriving the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) of its election symbol ahead of the 2024 general elections. He questioned why the party’s workers and the public were being punished for contesting elections using different symbols.

The opposition leader further urged the government to allow meetings with PTI founder Imran Khan, who has reportedly been unable to meet his family and associates for an extended period. He offered to meet Khan to assess his health and help resolve the ongoing political tensions.

Calling for Parliament to be made the centre of power, Achakzai said the country could be saved through the Constitution, democratic governance and respect for provincial autonomy.

He also criticised the government’s handling of foreign affairs and expressed concern over Pakistan’s strained relations with neighbouring countries.

He concluded by declaring the imposition of emergency and governor’s rule in KP unjustified, urging the government to reverse its decisions and resolve political disputes through dialogue.