Kohat (Agencies): Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Faisal Karim Kundi, reaffirmed his dedication to restoring peace in the troubled Kurram district, emphasizing the critical role of local initiatives in resolving security challenges. Addressing a grand jirga of political leaders and tribal elders in Kohat, he declared, “I am ready to go to Kurram and sit with the jirga for as many days as they ask. We must resolve our own issues; no other country or province can do this for us.”
The jirga, facilitated by Commissioner Kohat Motasim Billah Shah, brought together prominent political figures, including Federal Minister Engineer Amir Muqam, ANP’s Mian Iftikhar Hussain, PPP Provincial President Muhammad Ali Shah Bacha, Jamaat-e-Islami’s Professor Ibrahim, and QWP’s Sikandar Hayat Khan Sherpao. Other attendees included representatives from the National Democratic Movement, tribal elders, and local leaders such as Kohat Mayor Qari Sher Zaman and former Federal Minister Sajid Hussain Tori.
Governor Kundi condemned the misuse of social media to incite hatred and urged the community to cooperate with security forces in disarming the region. He praised the efforts of the Kurram Peace Jirga members and acknowledged the unified approach of political leadership despite ideological differences.
“We must prioritize peace in Kurram and across the province, including merged districts,” he stated, adding that he would initiate an All-Party Conference on Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s security and rights, extending an invitation to the Chief Minister to participate.
Kundi called on religious leaders to advocate for peace and prevent displacement, highlighting the importance of protecting the youth and addressing their grievances. He reminded the jirga of the sacrifices made by security forces, the media, and the victims of the Army Public School attack, stressing that such sacrifices should not be in vain.
The Governor assured the attendees that their concerns would be presented to the federal government and that political leaders would engage with the President, Prime Minister, and Chief of Army Staff to address Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s security challenges.
“Negotiation is the solution to our problems,” he concluded, urging unity and collaboration to uphold the rule of law and ensure lasting peace in the region.