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Mahmood Achakzai NA Opposition Leader
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Mahmood Achakzai Notified as NA Opposition Leader After Imran Khan’s Nomination
Pakistan’s political landscape witnessed a major development on January 16, 2026, as Mahmood Khan Achakzai, chief of Tehreek Tahafuz Ayeen-e-Pakistan (TTAP), was officially notified as the Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly (NA).
The appointment comes months after the position remained vacant following the disqualification of former opposition leader Omar Ayub, and marks a significant step in the opposition’s strategy amid ongoing political tensions.
Notification Issued by NA Speaker Ayaz Sadiq
National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq formally issued the notification declaring Mahmood Achakzai as the opposition leader with immediate effect.
According to the official notification:
“In pursuance of Rule 39 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business in the National Assembly, 2007, the Honourable Speaker has been pleased to declare Mahmood Khan Achakzai, MNA, as Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly with effect from January 16, 2026.”
The notification was released by NA Acting Secretary Saeed Ahmad Maitla, officially closing a prolonged leadership vacuum in the opposition benches.
Background: Why the Opposition Leader’s Seat Was Vacant
Omar Ayub’s Disqualification
The opposition leader’s position fell vacant after Omar Ayub, a senior PTI leader, was disqualified in August 2025 following his conviction and 10-year sentence related to the May 9 incidents.
Since then, the opposition struggled to reach consensus on a new leader until PTI founder Imran Khan nominated Mahmood Achakzai for the role.
Imran Khan’s Nomination of Mahmood Achakzai
Despite being incarcerated, Imran Khan continues to influence major political decisions within PTI. Sources confirm that the former prime minister personally nominated Achakzai as the opposition leader, citing his political maturity and ability to engage in dialogue.
Achakzai also serves as the head of Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP), giving him broader cross-party recognition within opposition circles.
Opposition Delegation Meets NA Speaker
The notification followed a formal meeting between NA Speaker Ayaz Sadiq and an opposition delegation, which included:
- Barrister Gohar Ali Khan
- Junaid Akbar
- Aamir Dogar
- Shahram Khan Tarakai
- Latif Khosa
- Jamal Ahsan Khan
The delegation presented the opposition’s consensus and documentation, paving the way for Achakzai’s official appointment.
PTI Leaders Welcome the Appointment
Reacting to the development, PTI leader Omar Ayub congratulated Mahmood Achakzai and expressed confidence in his leadership.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Ayub said:
“It is a great honour, and Achakzai sahib will, InshaAllah, fulfil his responsibilities brilliantly.”
PTI leaders believe Achakzai’s appointment strengthens the opposition’s voice in parliament during a politically volatile period.
Significance of Mahmood Achakzai’s Role
Advocate of National Dialogue
Achakzai has repeatedly called for inclusive national dialogue among all political forces to address Pakistan’s constitutional, political, and economic crises.
His appointment is seen as a strategic move to open channels of communication between the opposition and the ruling coalition.
Authority to Negotiate With the Government
Senior PTI leader Shah Mehmood Qureshi confirmed that Imran Khan has authorised Achakzai to negotiate with the government on behalf of the opposition.
Speaking to the media, Qureshi stated:
“Achakzai can decide better what to do. He has the mandate to negotiate.”
This statement highlights Achakzai’s central role in any future talks.
PTI vs PML-N: A Long-Running Political Standoff
Since Imran Khan’s removal via a no-confidence vote in April 2022, PTI and the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) have remained in constant confrontation.
Key developments since then include:
- Multiple PTI marches toward Islamabad
- Police crackdowns and mass arrests
- Legal cases against PTI leadership
- Continued incarceration of Imran Khan and senior party figures
The political divide has deeply impacted governance and legislative progress.
May 9 Cases and PTI Leadership Crisis
PTI continues to face serious legal challenges, particularly related to the May 9 incidents, with several top leaders currently behind bars, including:
- Imran Khan
- Shah Mehmood Qureshi
- Yasmin Rashid
These cases have weakened PTI’s operational capacity but have not diminished its political influence.
Rana Sanaullah’s Proposal for High-Level Talks
Earlier this month, Rana Sanaullah, adviser to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, emphasized the need for confidence-building measures among Pakistan’s top political leaders.
He suggested a meeting between:
- Nawaz Sharif
- PM Shehbaz Sharif
- President Asif Ali Zardari
- Imran Khan
- One additional key political figure
According to Sanaullah, without trust-building at the highest level, Pakistan would remain stuck in political deadlock.
PTI Rejects “Top Five Leaders” Formula
PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan rejected the proposal outright, stating:
- There is no need for such a meeting
- Informal talks among elites would not resolve the crisis
- PTI has never closed the door to negotiations, but terms must be clear
Similarly, Barrister Salman Akram Raja, PTI Secretary General, stressed that no meaningful dialogue can take place without Imran Khan’s participation.
What Lies Ahead for Pakistan’s Politics?
Mahmood Achakzai’s appointment as Leader of the Opposition comes at a critical time when Pakistan faces:
- Political polarization
- Economic instability
- Legal uncertainty
- Governance challenges
Analysts believe his leadership could either revive parliamentary dialogue or become another chapter in Pakistan’s prolonged political standoff.
Conclusion
The notification of Mahmood Khan Achakzai as NA Opposition Leader, following Imran Khan’s nomination, is a major political development with far-reaching implications.
With authority to negotiate and a reputation for dialogue, Achakzai now stands at the center of Pakistan’s opposition politics. Whether this leads to meaningful engagement or continued confrontation will shape the country’s political trajectory in 2026.