Grand Jirga Empowers CM Gandapur for Peace Talks in KP

PESHAWAR: In a significant development for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has been empowered by a Grand Jirga to engage in negotiations with dissenting parties. This move aims to find a peaceful resolution to the ongoing political and security challenges facing the province. The Grand Jirga convened at the Chief Minister's House on Thursday, where key political figures gathered to discuss the current situation and formulate a consensus plan of action.

The meeting was attended by notable figures including KP Governor Faisal Karim Kundi, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, and Federal Minister Amir Muqam, along with lawmakers and representatives from various political parties. The discussions were prompted by the recent announcement of a three-day Pashtoon Qaumi Jirga by the banned Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM), which has raised concerns about the stability of the region.

During the meeting, CM Gandapur expressed gratitude to the Grand Jirga participants for granting him the authority to lead a new jirga aimed at engaging in dialogue with dissenting factions. He emphasized the importance of resolving the political and security crisis in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa through peaceful means. The declaration issued after the meeting highlighted the urgency of formulating a strategy for addressing the province's issues.

Sources revealed that the terms of reference (ToRs) for the new jirga were finalized, although the members of this negotiation body have yet to be determined. CM Gandapur's willingness to negotiate was evident when he stated, "I'm ready to sit on the floor with the second party for negotiations." This statement reflects his commitment to dialogue, especially in light of recent clashes between KP police and PTM workers, which resulted in casualties and injuries.

In a bid to maintain order, CM Gandapur requested that no actions be taken without his permission, to which Interior Minister Naqvi responded positively, indicating that the federal government supports the Chief Minister's initiative for talks. This collaborative approach among political leaders is seen as a step towards establishing peace in the province.

Adviser to the KP Chief Minister on Information, Barrister Mohammad Ali Saif, noted that the heads of political parties are united in their goal to restore peace. He expressed confidence in CM Gandapur's leadership and his ability to navigate the complex political landscape. Ongoing consultations among key political figures, including PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, are aimed at developing a cohesive strategy for the future.

However, the backdrop of these discussions is the recent ban on the PTM, which was imposed by the coalition government led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The ban, enacted under the Anti-Terrorism Act, has raised tensions in the province, prompting the KP government to express its concerns to the central government. Despite these challenges, the provincial government remains committed to enforcing the ban while seeking peaceful resolutions to the issues at hand.

The empowerment of CM Gandapur by the Grand Jirga marks a pivotal moment in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's political landscape. As the Chief Minister prepares to engage in dialogue with dissenting parties, the hope is that these efforts will lead to a more stable and peaceful environment for the people of the province. The path ahead may be fraught with challenges, but the commitment to dialogue and collaboration among political leaders offers a glimmer of hope for a brighter future.