Mushtaq Ahmad launches new political party in Islamabad

ISLAMABAD (Web Desk) - Former senator Mushtaq Ahmad has announced the formation of a new political party, the Pakistan Rights Movement.

According to media reports, the launch ceremony was attended by the party’s central leadership, workers, associates, and members of civil society.

Addressing the gathering, Mushtaq Ahmad said his party would operate strictly in line with the principles of the 1973 Constitution. He added that the common citizen has been deprived of basic rights, and therefore, the party aims to serve all people on an equal basis.

The formal inauguration of the Pakistan Rights Movement was held at a private hotel in the federal capital, where a large number of party leaders, workers, and supporters were present. On the occasion, former senator Mushtaq Ahmad Khan said the party would adhere to the 1973 Constitution, which recognizes the sovereignty of Allah Almighty and guarantees Islamic principles.

He stated that the party’s objectives include ending the monopoly of privileged classes, ensuring social and economic justice, providing swift and affordable justice, protecting freedom of expression, improving access to education and healthcare, eradicating poverty and corruption, ending extrajudicial killings and military operations, and restoring trust among the federating units.

Criticizing the current parliamentary system, Mushtaq Ahmad Khan termed it “fake” and said that journalism and freedom of expression are under restrictions in the country. He pointed out that unemployment, inflation, food insecurity, drug abuse, environmental pollution, and corruption have become serious challenges.

He also criticised the defense budget, elite dominance, payments to IPPs, youth deprivation, and human trafficking. He demanded that public opinion, assemblies, and regional jirgas be taken into confidence before launching military operations. He further said that the armed forces should stay away from political activities, borders must be secured, and capable and honest leadership should be brought forward to put the country on the right path.

Last year, Mushtaq Ahmad Khan was arrested by Israeli forces after their attack on the Global Solidarity Flotilla en route to Gaza, an incident widely condemned by Pakistan and several other countries. While around 170 participants were released and more, including Greta Thunberg. Mushtaq Ahmad remained in custody for days, prompting strong diplomatic efforts by Pakistan. The Foreign Office, through its embassy in Amman and with Jordan’s assistance, worked to secure his release, as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif publicly demanded the immediate freedom of all detainees and praised the dignified participation of Pakistani activists in the humanitarian mission.

The prime minister had also assured Jamaat-e-Islami leadership that Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar was personally coordinating with friendly nations and international bodies to ensure Mushtaq Ahmad’s safe return. Later, Mushtaq distanced himself from Jamaat politics.