By – Abdul Salam Baitab
Bannu: A large peace march was held in Bannu under the banner of “Bannu Aman Pasoon” against the rising insecurity in the region. The march was attended by a large number of leaders from various political and social parties, elders, and members of the public. The march was led by Jamaat-e-Islami South Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Ameer Professor Muhammad Ibrahim Khan, Awami National Party leader Baz Muhammad Khan, Dr. Pir Sahib Zaman, and other local elders.
The march started from Lakki Gate and passed through various الأسواق (markets) of the شہر (city), finally reaching Preeti Gate, where it turned into a large public gathering. Participants chanted slogans in favor of peace and against lawlessness, while expressing serious concern over the increasing crime rate in the city.
Addressing the gathering, speakers announced that a grand peace jirga would be held on April 2 at the Jamaat-e-Islami Bannu office, where a future course of action would be decided. They said that representatives from all schools of thought, political parties, tribal elders, and civil society would be invited to develop a joint strategy.
The speakers stated that the law and order situation in Bannu and the southern districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has become extremely alarming. Incidents of target killings, extortion, kidnapping for ransom, and other crimes are continuously increasing, making life miserable for the public.
They demanded that no kind of military operation would be acceptable in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in general and in Bannu in particular. They said that thousands of people are currently missing and demanded that the government present all missing persons before the courts. They also demanded the immediate closure of all centers of armed groups in Bannu, stating that the people reject the presence of any such groups, including both “good” and “bad” Taliban.
They further demanded that the authority over mines, minerals, and natural resources—especially oil and gas—granted to the province under the 18th Amendment must be maintained. Regarding the protests held on July 19, 2024, and afterward, they demanded that all cases registered under Schedule IV or anti-terrorism laws against local elders be withdrawn immediately and that all detained elders be released.
The speakers said that roads in Bannu have been closed for more than a year, causing severe difficulties for the public. Due to road blockages by security institutions, the traffic system has been badly disrupted. They demanded the immediate reopening of Miranshah Road, Kot Barrah, Kot Adil, Juma Khan Road, Amundi Hanif Road, and other blocked roads.
They added that the business community is facing insecurity, while ordinary citizens are living under constant fear. Criticizing the government and security institutions, the leaders said they bear primary responsibility for the deteriorating situation. They alleged that the state is treating the people of Bannu unfairly and has completely failed to ensure peace.
They demanded immediate and effective measures to ensure public safety. The speakers expressed their resolve to raise their voices at every level for the establishment of peace and vowed not to remain silent under any circumstances.
They reiterated their commitment to remain united for peace in their region and to continue their struggle for their rights on every platform.
