KARACHI: On Saturday, the Tehreek Tahaffuz Ayeen-i-Pakistan (TTAP) leadership met with the Grand Democratic Alliance (GDA) chief, Pir Pagara, in Karachi, extending an invitation to a significant political meeting scheduled to be held in Islamabad on February 25 and 26. The meeting aims to unify various political entities under a common agenda.
Pir Pagara, while greeting the TTAP delegation, reiterated the importance of the Constitution as the cornerstone of the nation. He criticized the current parliament, describing it as unrepresentative and illegitimate, which has led to the GDA’s decision not to take the parliamentary oath, despite securing seats.
The TTAP delegation included prominent figures such as former National Assembly speaker Asad Qaiser and legal expert Salman Akram Raja. The GDA’s representation was robust, featuring leaders like Syed Sadruddin Shah Rashdi and Dr. Fehmida Mirza.
In discussions with the media, Mr. Rashidi, a GDA leader, noted the alignment of the GDA and TTAP on various issues affecting Sindh and the federation. Pir Pagara highlighted the critical role of constitutional supremacy in strengthening national institutions.
The conversation also touched upon the controversial 26th constitutional amendment and the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), with both parties expressing common concerns. TTAP leaders emphasized their commitment to upholding constitutional supremacy, asserting that their efforts would encompass both public mobilization and legal avenues.
Asad Qaiser confirmed that the TTAP had invited all political parties to the Islamabad meeting, emphasizing the movement’s focus on the supremacy of the Constitution. He further mentioned consultations with the chief justice of Pakistan, rejecting the 26th amendment and dismissing the notion of waiting for external intervention.
In a related development, PTI leaders, during a convention at the Karachi Bar Association, called for political unity to defend democratic rights. They voiced concerns about water distribution injustices in Sindh and the ongoing human rights issues in Balochistan.
Salman Akram Raja, PTI’s Secretary General, underscored the party’s commitment to fighting for the rights of all provinces, advocating for the restoration of democratic norms and constitutional adherence.
The meeting between PTI and GDA leaders signifies a strategic push for broader political cooperation amid pressing national issues. The upcoming Islamabad gathering is poised to address these challenges, fostering dialogue among diverse political factions.
