Tribals Stage Peace Rally in Mirali, North Waziristan Demanding Stability

Several tribals participated in a peace rally in Mirali Tehsil, North Waziristan, urging for peace and law and order restoration. The protesters, led by tribal leaders, carried white flags and banners, calling on the government to uphold its peace commitments. A deadline of September 15 was set to meet their demands.

Several tribals staged a peace rally at Mirali Tehsil in North Waziristan, advocating for peace in their region, as reported by Pakistan-based daily, Dawn. On Sunday, residents marched through Mirali Bazaar carrying white flags, banners, and placards while chanting peace slogans.

The rally was announced by Mufti Baitullah of the Utmanzai Jirga during a meeting on August 12. Leaders of the Utmanzai Jirga, members of a local political alliance, and the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement participated. Protesters demanded action to improve the law and order situation in North Waziristan and sought greater control over their resources. Baitullah emphasized that the peace agreement with the government assigned security responsibilities to the state, but the government had repeatedly failed to fulfill this commitment, prompting the public demonstration.

Protesters imposed a deadline of September 15 for the government to meet their demands, warning of intensified protests if ignored. Mirali Tehsil has seen increased insecurity, including targeted killings, kidnappings for ransom, and frequent militant attacks on security forces. One person was killed and another injured in a targeted killing on Sunday.

Similar issues prompted protests in South Waziristan in late July 2024, where residents faced ongoing lawlessness, targeted killings, and extortion. The persistent instability and military operations in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region have been highlighted internationally. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)