PTM agrees not to raise anti-state slogans after negotiations with tribal elders

PESHAWAR: After a breakthrough in talk with tribal elders, the Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM) on Tuesday agreed not to raise any anti-state slogans, or instigate against the armed forces and other national institutions.

PTM also agreed to call off its political gathering which was scheduled to be held on the third day of Eid in Ramzak, South Waziristan, and the protests it had announced in Wana, Mir Ali, and other areas to demand the release of its workers.

The breakthrough was made during in a tribal jirga held in the courtyard of former lawmaker Shahji Gul Afridi in Hayatabad area of Peshawar, and was attended by several prominent leaders including Malik Khan Marjan, Ajmal Khan Wazir, former lawmaker Shah Farman and PTM leader Mohsin Dawar.

The meeting agreed that no one from the PTM will be allowed to chant anti-state slogans or instigate against the armed forces, and the campaign against state institutions on social media will also be stopped immediately.

Both sides also agreed to reach the talks to its logical conclusion as they desired peace and stability in the region. The government representatives also assured that all detained PTM workers detained will be released soon.

Tribal leader Ajmal Wazir, speaking to ARY News, said that negotiations were underway since several weeks but a breakthrough was reached two days ago. He said the government was taken into full confidence over the negotiations, and assured that all PTM activists will be released before Eid.

He said that both sides had agreed that issues can be resolved through dialogue, and they had created an environment conducive for any further talks.

It may be recalled that PTM had held a meeting with Director General Inter-Services Public relations (ISPR) Maj-General Asif Ghafoor on February 8 where they were assured that grievances will be addressed.

A new round of talks will be held on June 22 between the tribal elders and PTM to discuss further concerns. The issue of watan cards, check posts landmine clearance and other lingering issues are also expected to be resolved.