Khyber jirga unveils decisions, demands today

KABUL (Pajhwok): Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM) leader Manzoor Pashteen says Sunday marks the final day of the Pashtun Justice Tribal Jirga, whose decisions and demands will be announced today.

This jirga commenced on Friday afternoon with the participation of thousands of people, including political figures, from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan provinces.

PTM chief Manzoor Pashteen alleged in a video message an ongoing crackdown by Pakistani security forces was aimed at disrupting preparations for the jirga.

He accused the security personnel of burning equipment and tents and denying permission for organising the grand tribal assembly. The restrictions caused the gathering to start behind schedule.

But defying harsh security measures, thousands of individuals gathered at the event to discuss the challenges and pressures Pakhtuns are facing today.

The BBC quoted Pashteen as saying that Sunday would be the last day of the assembly, whose results and demands would be announced.

It said at least 80 committees were formed for discussions on addressing the issues being faced by Pakhtuns.

In his key-note address, Pashteen called for peace and rule of law in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, stressing the importance of non-violence.

A two-hour documentary was screened that highlighted the devastating impact of violence and displacement in the northwestern province.

According to the documentary, at least 76,584 people from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have been killed in bombings, shootings and other attacks over the years, while an estimated 6,700 others remain missing.

It added over 5.7 million people had been displaced, more than 217,000 identity cards canceled and 200,000 homes, 36 markets and 25,000 shops destroyed or burned.

sa/mud