After a one-day delay, the Pashtun Justice Tribal Jirga officially commenced today (Saturday) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, drawing thousands of participants from across Pakistan. The gathering, which aims to address the challenges and pressures faced by the Pashtun community, has become a significant event in the region.
Manzoor Pashteen, the leader of the Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM), expressed the exhaustion felt by Pashtun leaders due to the ongoing situation in the country. Speaking to the assembly, Pashteen emphasized that Pashtun youth are fully behind the decisions made during this Jirga.
“Our scholars, elders, and tribal leaders are here because of the immense challenges they’ve faced. These leaders are your people, and they are here seeking reassurance and a path forward,” said Pashteen. He added, “All political parties are committed to reaching a decision that will benefit our nation.”
Images from the event depict thousands of people gathered around the Jirga tents, passionately chanting slogans against terrorism and the instability plaguing the region.
Maulana Fazlur Rehman, the head of Pakistan’s Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI), confirmed that his party had sent a delegation to the event. He acknowledged that the primary concerns for Pashtuns are security and the protection of their rights.
“There are two pressing issues—one is insecurity, especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and the other is the lack of rights given to our people. It’s time we receive our due,” said Maulana Fazlur Rehman.
Initially scheduled to take place on Friday, October 11, the Jirga was delayed by a day after Pakistani police reportedly attempted to disrupt the event, leading to logistical setbacks. Despite these challenges, the Pashtun Justice Tribal Jirga has officially begun and is expected to continue for three days.
FAQ: Pashtun Justice Tribal Jirga
Q: What is the Pashtun Justice Tribal Jirga? A: The Pashtun Justice Tribal Jirga is a large assembly of Pashtun leaders, activists, and citizens aimed at addressing issues like insecurity, terrorism, and the violation of Pashtun rights. It serves as a platform for collective decision-making and advocacy.
Q: Where is the Jirga taking place? A: The Jirga is being held in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan.
Q: Who is Manzoor Pashteen? A: Manzoor Pashteen is the leader of the Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM), a group that advocates for the rights of Pashtuns and seeks to address injustices and security challenges faced by the community.
Q: Why was the Jirga delayed? A: The Jirga was initially scheduled for Friday, October 11, but was delayed by a day due to efforts by the Pakistani police to prevent the gathering, which caused organizational delays.
Q: What are the main issues being discussed at the Jirga? A: The primary topics of discussion include insecurity in the region, especially in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and the ongoing struggle for Pashtun rights.
Q: How long will the Jirga last? A: The Jirga is expected to last for three days.
Q: Who else is participating in the Jirga? A: In addition to Manzoor Pashteen and the PTM, leaders from various political parties, including Maulana Fazlur Rehman of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam, are participating in the discussions. Thousands of Pashtuns from various parts of Pakistan have also gathered for the event.
