Security official denounces Achakzai’s ‘unfortunate remarks’ on Pak Army

Lahore, February 12, 2026 — A senior security official has strongly criticised opposition leader Mahmood Khan Achakzai for what he called “unfortunate and misleading remarks” about the Pakistan Army.

The official said Achakzai’s statement was based on incorrect claims and was deeply regrettable. He made the comments while speaking to journalists in Lahore on Wednesday.

Remarks Spark Political Reaction

The reaction followed a speech by Achakzai in the National Assembly a day earlier. During the session, the Leader of the Opposition described the Pakistan Army as a “force of four districts”. His words immediately triggered criticism from government members.

The security official said political dialogue was the right of all parties. However, he stressed that the military had no role in politics. He added that legal and judicial matters should always be decided by courts under the Constitution and the law.

Security Situation and Public Support

Referring to the security situation, the official said recent meetings aimed at restoring peace in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa were showing positive signs. He said visits to schools and colleges also proved that the younger generation continued to support the Pakistan Army.

He added that no narrative could weaken the relationship between the armed forces and the people of Pakistan.

Terrorism a National Responsibility

The official said the fight against terrorism was not only the duty of the army or security agencies. He said it was a collective responsibility of the entire nation.

He also accused India of backing terrorism inside Pakistan. He said groups such as “Fitna-ul-Hindustan” were enemies of the Baloch people and obstacles to peace and development in Balochistan.

Defence Minister Responds in Parliament

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif also condemned Achakzai’s statement in the National Assembly. He called it irresponsible and said it was an attempt to damage the reputation of a national institution.

Asif said Achakzai had the right to his opinions but should not target the armed forces. He said the military was proving its commitment to the country through sacrifices in the ongoing war against terrorism.

Heavy Sacrifices Cited

Sharing official figures, the defence minister said more than 3,100 security personnel had been martyred over the past five years.

He said that from 2021 to February 2026, 170 officers, 212 Junior Commissioned Officers, and 2,759 soldiers had lost their lives while defending the country.

“The Pakistan Army represents the entire nation, not any single region or province,” Asif said. He added that soldiers continued to face daily threats while fighting militants, especially in Balochistan.

Achakzai Stands by His Statement

Despite the criticism, Achakzai defended his remarks while responding in the National Assembly. He said his people had made major sacrifices during the struggle against British rule and claimed they were later punished for supporting democracy.

He accused past governments of adopting policies that harmed Pashtun communities economically. He demanded fair representation based on population and a meaningful role in governance.

Achakzai also questioned the role of parliament, asking whether it existed to justify martial laws. However, he said he respected an army that stayed within constitutional limits.