A protester was reportedly killed and 26 others injured when a peace rally in Bannu Cannt allegedly came under gunfire. The rally, organized by the ‘Aman Pasun’ group, was attended by local political activists, traders, civil society members, and other citizens who were advocating for peace.
Following the shooting, the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Health Department declared a health emergency in Bannu’s public hospitals, with all medical staff placed on high alert to manage the crisis and prevent further casualties.
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Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa’s Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandpur has taken notice of the incident and requested a detailed report. Negotiations are ongoing with the protesters, and a financial aid package has been announced for the deceased and injured. However, the Chief Minister emphasized that violence would not be tolerated under the guise of protest.
The incident has been widely condemned by political figures, lawyers, and human rights organizations. ANP president Aimal Wali Khan criticized the shooting as a disgraceful act, accusing the state of supporting extremism over peace and calling for an inquiry.
The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Bar Council has demanded an independent judicial investigation and announced a boycott of court proceedings. The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan also condemned the attack, urging for an engagement with protesters and a transparent debate on any measures taken to restore order.
