ISLAMABAD: Tehreek-e-Tahffuz-e-Aayine-e-Pakistan (TTAP), an alliance of opposition parties, on Sunday expressed concern over Pakistan’s plan to contribute troops to the proposed International Stabilisation Force (ISF) for Gaza, calling for greater transparency and public involvement in decision-making on such sensitive matters. In a final declaration at the concluding session of its two-day conference, the alliance warned that unilateral troop deployments to Gaza could undermine sovereignty, compromise security, and bypass democratic processes, urging consultation with all stakeholders. Addressing the ongoing constitutional crisis, TTAP reaffirmed its commitment to restoring the 18th Amendment, which it said guarantees provincial control over mineral resources. The group condemned any international agreements on mining undertaken without consultation with provincial populations, framing them as encroachments on provincial rights. TTAP also called for the immediate appointment of a new Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) by removing Sikander Sultan Raja without any further delay and hold transparent general elections under a neutral, and impartial commission. The alliance stressed the need for a thorough investigation into “massive” rigging in the February 2024 polls and demanded that those responsible for any malpractice be held accountable. The conference expressed alarm over what it described as the erosion of judicial independence, citing the 26th and 27th constitutional amendments as tools that have allegedly undermined the judiciary by facilitating transfers of judges. The forced resignations of prominent judges, including Justice Mansoor Ali Shah, Justice Athar Minallah, and Justice Shams Mahmood Mirza of the Lahore High Court, along with attempts to silence others such as Islamabad High Court Judge Justice Tariq Jahangiri, were condemned. TTAP pledged full solidarity with Justice Jahangiri and called for the restoration of judicial independence as guaranteed under the 1973 Constitution. Political persecution also came under TTAP’s scrutiny. The alliance condemned what it described as “false cases” and harsh sentences against Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders, including Imran Khan, his wife Bushra Bibi, Shah Mehmood Qureshi, Ijaz Chaudhry and others. Alleged mistreatment of Khan’s sisters was highlighted, with the group demanding the immediate release of all political prisoners and an end to restrictions on political meetings, including visits to Imran Khan. TTAP further criticised the Pakistan Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), alleging that it curtails media freedom and stifles dissent. The alliance expressed concern over economic and political pressures on independent media, standing in solidarity with journalists facing job losses or harassment. Support was also voiced for human rights activist Imaan Mazari and her husband, Ali Haadi, who are currently facing legal charges. On the economic front, TTAP painted a grim picture of the country’s financial health, noting that over 44 percent of the population lives below the poverty line. The alliance criticised the government’s handling of unemployment, inflation, and corruption, citing an IMF report estimating Rs5,300 billion in losses due to corrupt practices. Urgent measures were demanded, including the removal of regressive taxes affecting farmers, businesses, and salaried individuals. The alliance also condemned alleged forced disappearances and political persecution in Balochistan and Sindh, calling for the release of political prisoners such as Dr Mahrang Baloch. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, TTAP urged the provincial government to take immediate action against rising terrorism in line with demands made by local jirgas. TTAP further called for the restoration of student unions, describing them as vital for the healthy functioning of democracy. The alliance stressed the need for political dialogue and urged all parties to engage constructively to uphold the constitution’s original spirit. Looking ahead, TTAP announced plans for a nationwide strike on February 8, 2026, marking the second anniversary of what it called the “unconstitutional system” in the country. The strike will include a wheel-jam and a “shutter-down” protest aimed at mobilising public opposition to the government. A central committee, led by Mustafa Nawaz Khohkar and Dr Amjad, will coordinate activities at provincial and district levels. The alliance announced to hold national consultative conferences and engage with bar councils, civil society organisations, and the general public to restore constitutional rule, law, and democracy. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025