Peshawar’s Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Information Adviser, Dr. Saif, has announced that one of the factions involved in the conflict in Kurram has signed a peace agreement, with the other party expected to sign today. Speaking at the Peshawar Press Club, Dr. Saif stated that until both sides finalize the agreement, the roads in Kurram will remain closed. He reassured that the provincial government is committed to resolving the long-standing conflict between the two groups.
Dr. Saif highlighted that the provincial government took immediate action when the situation in Kurram deteriorated, beginning with the establishment of a ceasefire. A grand Jirga, consisting of local elders, has been convened to mediate a permanent solution to this 130-year-old issue. The second party has requested a brief extension but is expected to sign the agreement in today’s meeting.
Also Read: Talks to Deweaponize Kurram Deadlocked, Road Closures Persist
In his media address, Dr. Saif dismissed allegations made by Federal Minister Ata Tarar, calling them baseless. He criticized Tarar for making unfounded claims against the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government without proper research. Dr. Saif also accused Tarar of holding multiple jobs and lacking credibility in his criticisms.
The Adviser stressed that the provincial government’s focus is on resolving the conflict and ensuring peace in the region. He emphasized that decisions made by the Apex Committee, such as the collection of weapons and demolition of bunkers, will be implemented. Additionally, he refuted rumors that Kurram was being emptied for terrorists, stating that road closures are merely a temporary hardship for locals.
Dr. Saif also took the opportunity to criticize the federal government’s handling of the economy, particularly pointing out the sharp rise in national debt under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership. He accused Ata Tarar of incompetence, claiming that Tarar’s remarks on Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa’s economy were misguided and misleading.
