In a recent discussion, former Chief Minister and Governor of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sardar Mehtab Ahmed Khan, expressed his strong views against the establishment of military courts, deeming it a violation of justice.
He emphasized the importance of addressing the demands raised by the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM), as he believes peace in the Pashtun region is crucial for overall stability in Pakistan.
Sardar Mehtab highlighted the significance of Pakistan’s constitution, established through consensus in 1973, and reinforced with the 18th amendment. He warned that any attempts to undermine the judiciary based on individual whims could have dangerous consequences.
Referring to the ongoing political challenges, he advised political leaders, particularly Maulana Fazlur Rehman, to regain the public’s trust by playing a more active role in stabilizing the political landscape.
Sardar Mehtab also touched on the Balochistan conflict, stressing that the region’s unrest needs to be resolved through peaceful means, not force.
He lamented Pakistan’s long entanglement in Afghanistan’s war and criticized the exclusion of the parliament and the public from shaping the country’s foreign policy.
He urged the military establishment to reconsider its approach, advocating for a collaborative effort to protect Pakistan’s future.
Discussing the broader political environment, he noted the erosion of democratic values and called for free and fair elections.
According to him, power must be transferred to those elected by the people, ensuring a truly democratic system.
Sardar Mehtab emphasized that Pakistan’s current approach could lead to fragmentation, and he called for unity, particularly in provinces like Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which he believes have grown increasingly disillusioned with the central government.
Sardar Mehtab warned against using military courts to target civilians and political figures, stressing that such actions undermine the principles of justice and could lead to further political chaos.