ISLAMABAD: Rejecting the opposition’s plan to stage a long march from Peshawar to the federal capital on Sept 27, the PPP has urged the opposition and the government to show mercy to the people and avoid any clash.

“Frequent marches on Islamabad severely disrupt the lives of citizens,” said the party’s Secretary General Nayyer Hussain Bukhari in a statement on Tuesday.

“Whether it is May 9 or Nov 26, the people ultimately suffer,” he added.

Political clashes, he said, at the cost of the country and its people were unacceptable.

Urges govt, political parties to avoid confrontation over Sept 27 protest

“The government and the opposition must show mercy to the people and resolve political issues through dialogue,” Mr Bukhari said.

He said repeated marches and confrontations in Islamabad severely affected the lives of citizens and disrupted normal economic and social activities.

He said that, whether it was May 9 or November 26, ordinary people were ultimately forced to face difficulties and disruptions.

“Political confrontation and violence at the cost of the country and its people are unacceptable,” he added.

Mr Bukhari urged both the government and the opposition to show consideration for the people and focus on political stability, economic development and resolution of public issues.

He said the prevailing circumstances demand that both sides demonstrate political maturity and prioritise the national interest.

The PPP leader said the government and opposition should abandon stubbornness and adopt the path of dialogue. “Political issues cannot be resolved through confrontation, force or agitation; they must be addressed through negotiations and constitutional and democratic means,” he added.

Mr Bukhari said Pakistan was neither a monarchy nor could a monarchical system function in the country.

“Pakistan must be governed according to the Constitution, law and democratic principles,” he said.

Expressing concern over rising petroleum prices, he said it was surprising that petrol prices in Pakistan were increasing day by day despite declining prices in the international market.

The increase in petroleum prices and inflation have made life extremely difficult for the poor.

“The government must take effective measures to provide relief to the public,” he demanded.

Mr Bukhari said under the Constitution, the federal government could seek assistance from the provinces, including police personnel when required.

“The Constitution provides a framework for cooperation between the federation and the provinces, and constitutional procedures should be followed,” he added.

“Nelson Mandela was released as a result of negotiations, not by breaking out of prison. The political challenges in Pakistan should likewise be addressed through dialogue, the Constitution and parliament,” he said.

Published in Dawn, September 23rd, 2026