Kurram Conflict Resolved as Jirga Brokers Landmark Peace Agreement
KOHAT/PARACHINAR: Residents of the Kurram tribal district welcomed a long-awaited relief on Wednesday as rival factions signed a 14-point peace agreement brokered by the Grand Peace Jirga. This development aims to end months of unrest that had disrupted lives and essential supplies in the volatile region.
The Grand Peace Jirga had been negotiating the agreement for over three weeks in Kohat, addressing issues stemming from violence that claimed over 150 lives and led to prolonged road closures. The scarcity of essential goods and medicines forced residents to stage protests in Kurram and across other regions, including Peshawar, to demand action.
Key Terms of the Peace Agreement
The agreement, hailed as a significant step toward sustainable peace, outlines several measures to restore stability in Kurram:
- Disarmament: Both parties will surrender heavy weapons to the government.
- Bunker Demolition: Construction of new bunkers is banned, and existing ones must be removed within a month. Violators will be labeled as terrorists.
- Security Enhancements: Travel routes will be secured with additional security personnel.
- Accountability: Residents of areas where terrorist incidents occur will be held responsible.
- Implementation of Past Agreements: The 2008 Murree Peace Agreement will be fully enforced.
- Safe Travel: Convoys will operate on Saturdays to ensure road safety.
- Prohibition of Extremism: Religious framing of disputes and activities of proscribed organizations are strictly banned.
- Infrastructure Maintenance: All travel routes will remain accessible, and parties must cooperate on road and utility repairs.
- Social Media Monitoring: Spreading hatred online will lead to punitive actions.
- Community Mediation: Local peace committees will address disputes, with unresolved issues referred to the Grand Peace Jirga.
Leadership Remarks
KP government spokesperson Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif, announcing the agreement, commended the efforts of the Jirga and local communities. He described the accord as a “cornerstone for sustainable peace,” emphasizing the government’s commitment to a comprehensive, long-term resolution.
Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur expressed his joy over the agreement, applauding the provincial government’s role in achieving a peaceful resolution. He called the development a testament to the region’s desire for unity and peace, urging all parties to reject divisive elements.
“This agreement sends a clear message that Kurram’s people are peace-loving,” Gandapur stated, expressing hope that the accord would lead to the reopening of critical routes and the restoration of normalcy. He stressed the importance of dialogue over violence in resolving conflicts.
A Path to Normalcy
The peace agreement is expected to pave the way for rebuilding trust and infrastructure in the Kurram district. It marks a turning point for a community long plagued by violence, offering hope for a peaceful and prosperous future.
To Keep Updated Visit & Follow our Facebook Page Or Our Website
