QUETTA: Pashtoonkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP) Chairman Mahmood Khan Achakzai has said that Pakistan is currently navigating through a challenging period marked by financial and political crises.

He made these remarks on Saturday during the celebration of Pashtun Culture Day, emphasising the significance of preserving and celebrating Pashtun culture, especially during these critical times when Pakistan is confronted with escalating crises.

PkMAP Secretary General Abdul Rahim Ziaratwal, Abdul Qahar Wadan, provincial President Kabir Afghan, Rahab Buledi Advocate and other party leaders were also present on the occasion.

Mr Achakzai expressed his disappointment over the lack of unity among political parties in addressing the country’s pressing issues.

Mahmood Achakzai highlights financial and political crises

He said the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) was a good political alliance and Nawaz Sharif emerged as a good leader in the context of the PDM’s struggle.

The PkMAP chairman stressed the need for developing consensus-based policies that serve the country’s best interests.

“It is necessary to prepare comprehensive policies with consensus to steer the country away from further deterioration,” he said, adding that it was the responsibility of the interim government and the Election Commi­ssion of Pakistan to ensure free, fair and transparent elections on time to help the country overcome its present crises.

The Pashtun Culture Day was also celebrated in other parts of Balochistan with great enthusiasm.

Various cultural events and musical performances were organised in different cities including Loralai, Pishin, Chaman, Musakhail, Qila Abdullah, Ziarat, Qila Saifullah, Zhob, Duki and other Pashtun-dominated districts of the province to mark the day.

Festivities included cultural events, musical performances, and traditional attires, showcasing the vibrancy of Pashtun culture.

In Quetta, a special ceremony was held at the Metropolitan Corporation Quetta lawn, where different stalls highlighted Pashtun culture, its historical significance, contributions to the country’s development, and notable achievements.

During cultural shows, the participants donned traditional attire and enjoyed folk music performances and literary events, aimed at promoting various aspects of the globally renowned Pashtun culture, including its literature, customs and cuisines.

Published in Dawn, September 24rd, 2023