After three weeks of intense deliberations, a grand jirga in Kohat has successfully brokered a peace agreement to end the longstanding tensions in Kurram district.
All parties involved have signed the 14-point agreement, signaling a significant step towards restoring peace and stability in the region.
Key provisions of agreement
- Weapons will be collected under government supervision, with all militant fronts and bunkers dismantled.
- Comprehensive operations against terrorists will be conducted throughout Kurram district.
- A special force comprising 399 personnel will be established to secure routes in Kurram.
- Parties are bound by the Apex Committee’s decisions, with violators to be handed over to the government.
Govt and jirga efforts
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur praised the agreement as a sustainable solution to the Kurram issue, emphasizing that violence is not a viable path to resolution. He appealed to all parties to reject hatred and commit to peace.
Gandapur highlighted that the agreement represents the peace-loving nature of the region’s people and urged for unity against divisive elements. "The signing of the agreement is a significant step towards a lasting solution to the Kurram issue. I hope the agreement provides a strong foundation for a lasting solution to the Kurram issue," he asserted.
He further said the signing of the agreement paved the way for the opening of the land route to Kurram. "Problems and conflicts are always resolved through negotiations," the CM maintained.
Jirga member Malik Sawab revealed that reservations on three clauses were addressed, and 45 representatives from each party signed the agreement. The administration assured that pending demands would be met, with plans for a Grand Jirga in Peshawar and a formal announcement at the Governor House, he added.
He further noted that plans were being made to open the roads and establish peace. Those who violate the agreement will be handed over to the government, he asserted, adding that joint efforts would be made to ensure peace and order.
Commitment to peace
The Kohat commissioner lauded the peace efforts, stating that the agreement had resolved the reservations of all parties. Jirga member Haji Izzat Gul assured that roads would be reopened soon, with a committee to oversee disarmament within 15 days.
The jirga process, a hallmark of Pashtun tradition, proved its efficacy in resolving the complex issue. The Chief Minister reiterated that negotiations, not violence, pave the way for lasting peace, urging all parties to work together for the region’s betterment.
One of the parties had asked for a two-day extension in this regard; however, after the two-day extension for the consultation process expired on Tuesday, the Grand Jirga resumed and continued for nine and a half hours without any break.
