Politicians Demand Halt to Balochistan, KP Military Operations

A multiparty conference (MPC) in Islamabad has demanded cessation of all ongoing military operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.

The demand came from the political stakeholders, mainly opposition groups from the two provinces, a week after the start of military operation in Bajaur.

PTI government in KP led by chief minister Ali Amin Gandpur allowed the Bajaur operation against Imran Khan’s clear direction. The incarcerated PTI founder chairman had sent instruction through his sister Aleema Khan, telling Gandapur not to permit military operation inside KP. “Resolve militancy issues through Jirgas,” Aleema quoted Khan.  

But many believe civilian setup in Pakistan has little say in decision-making on key internal and external affairs. They say it is the country’s most powerful military establishment who makes all important decisions.

Aimal Wali Khan, the ANP head and organiser of the MPC, voiced severe concerns over military actions in KP. Worsening Bajaur situation, he said, may engulf the entire province.

JUI-F head Maulana Fazlur Rehman and National Democratic Movement chairman Mohsin Dawar attended the event. Other participants included top leadership from Qaumi Watan Party, Jamaat-e-Islami and Balochistan National Party-Mengal (BNP). Awami National Party. PTI was not invited to the MPC.

Leaders have issued a unanimous declaration, expressing concerns over ongoing unrest in parts of KP and Balochistan. “The terrorism and violation of constitutional rights in Pakistan is a result of flawed policies,” the declaration read. They demanded formation of the truth commission (under judiciary supervision) to conduct investigation into human and financial losses in operations.

Maulana Fazlur Rehman expressed severe concern over the law and order situation in KP and Balochistan. He claimed that armed groups controlled the province as people have to pay extortion money to them.

Islamabad Peace March:

The MPC postponed the much-hyped Islamabad Peace March, owing to floods in KP. Qaumi Amn Jirga had announced the march during a meeting at Bacha Khan Markaz Peshawar on July 31. The ANP on Saturday directed the party workers to step up preparations for peace march scheduled to begin from Swabi on August 23.