In a significant initiative to confront rising security challenges in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, political leaders gathered for a Grand Jirga in Peshawar.
Representatives from both the federal and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) governments convened to discuss peace and security issues in the region.
The meeting took place at the Chief Minister’s House in K-P’s provincial capital, hosted by Ali Amin Khan Gandapur and attended by prominent figures such as Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and K-P Governor Faisal Karim Kundi.
The assembly included members of the K-P Assembly and leaders from various political parties, highlighting a collective effort to address the province’s increasing security concerns.
Noteworthy participants included Aimal Wali Khan from the Awami National Party (ANP), Mohsin Dawar, Mian Iftikhar Hussain, Sikandar Sherpao from the Qaumi Watan Party (QWP), representatives from the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), Speaker Babar Salim Swati, and PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar.
In his opening remarks, Chief Minister Gandapur expressed his appreciation for all attendees and acknowledged the trust placed in him to lead this important initiative. He emphasized the urgent need for political unity, urging leaders to collaborate across party lines to ensure the safety and well-being of K-P residents.
“The safety of our citizens, including both civilians and security personnel, is our highest priority,” Gandapur stated, stressing that dialogue is essential for resolving issues and restoring peace, rather than resorting to violence. He further remarked,
“By holding this jirga today, we honor Pashtun traditions, and I assure you that all opinions and suggestions shared will be respected.”
Governor Faisal Karim Kundi reinforced this message, underscoring that the main goal of the jirga is to foster peace in the province. He commended the provincial government for bringing together leaders from various political backgrounds, asserting that such unity is vital for effective dialogue.
Kundi highlighted the significance of negotiations in resolving regional and global conflicts, referring to the consensus reached in Afghanistan through dialogue.
He noted that discussions should center on those who respect the constitution and laws of the country, with demands directed at both provincial and federal governments to be thoughtfully considered.
“We must unite to restore peace in this province, especially in areas that are still considered no-go zones,” Kundi urged, encouraging participants to utilize the jirga as a platform for finding peaceful solutions to K-P’s challenges.
The Grand Jirga takes place at a critical juncture as K-P faces escalating security threats, with several areas still struggling with violence. The assembly of political leaders from diverse backgrounds represents a significant step toward promoting dialogue-driven solutions, a core aspect of Pashtun culture.
Both the federal and provincial governments have expressed their commitment to work together and identify solutions to the ongoing security issues in the region.
The focus of the jirga on peaceful negotiation over confrontation offers a hopeful path forward, with participants expected to continue their collaborative efforts in the coming days to develop practical solutions.