Kurram: Grand jirga finally strikes peace deal

KOHAT: The three-week-long Grand jirga convened to address the situation in Kurram has successfully concluded, with both parties signing an agreement, according to Jirga member Malik Sawab Khan, ARY News reported.

According to reports, Malik Sawab Khan stated that the issues have been resolved, and concerns have largely been addressed. The agreement will be officially announced at the Peshawar Governor House.

Jirga members emphasized that both parties are bound to implement the decisions of the Apex Committee. Malik Sawab Khan further explained that delays in signing the agreement occurred due to the absence of some members, while Jirga member Abdullah Khan noted that a few members were unable to attend due to other commitments.

According to Abdullah Khan, after the agreement is fully signed, its implementation will begin. A 16-member committee, comprising representatives from both sides, will be formed to oversee the process. Additionally, a plan will be devised under government supervision to collect weapons.

Abdullah Khan added that bunkers and fortifications from Teri Mangal to Chehri will be dismantled. Furthermore, all roads and routes, including the Tal-Parachinar Road, will be reopened for public use.

ARY News has acquired a copy of the agreement. The document confirms that the 2008 Murree Agreement, along with previous accords, will remain valid and enforceable.

Measures will be implemented to ensure the safety of roads under the directives of the Apex Committee, with peace committee members bound to maintain order and adhere to the agreement.

The government has pledged to take strict action against violations on public roads, while peace committees will collaborate fully with relevant authorities. In cases of misconduct, local residents will be required to prove their innocence under tribal customs and laws.

Any individuals providing shelter or assistance to miscreants will be deemed offenders and held accountable.

The agreement includes provisions for the resettlement of displaced families in Kurram, ensuring their return to their respective areas without hindrance. A subcommittee led by the Kurram Deputy Commissioner will oversee this process.

Land disputes in regions such as Gido, Balish Khel, Dandar Bushara, Ghuzgarhi, and others will be resolved according to legal and tribal traditions, with the Land Revenue Commission receiving full support to address any challenges.

The agreement emphasises collaboration between peace committees, the district administration, and security institutions. It also warns of strict legal action against individuals attempting to obstruct the peace process or violate the agreement. This development is seen as a vital move toward restoring stability in Kurram.

Earlier, after a two-day hiatus, the grand Jirga, aims to address the collection of arms, demolition of bunkers, and reopening of routes in Kurram, resumed in Kohat.

The grand Jirga was bringing together tribal elders to discuss key issues affecting the Kurram region as six tribes had agreed to sign an agreement in line with the Apex Committee’s decision.

However, the Turi tribe emphasised the need to reopen routes first. Meanwhile, a sit-in protest by six tribes in Bagan Bazaar has entered its fifth day.

The protesters were demanding the reopening of routes to alleviate the shortage of food and other essential items.