The Kurram peace jirga in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has not concluded, as reports suggesting its dissolution were refuted by the provincial government. Barrister Mohammad Ali Saif, Adviser to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister on Information and Public Affairs, clarified on Monday that the jirga has requested an additional 24 hours for further deliberations.
“The Kurram [peace] jirga is not over. The reports about its dissolution are baseless,” said Barrister Saif, emphasizing that the parties involved needed more time to reach a consensus on key issues such as the elimination of bunkers and the collection of weapons.
The nine-day-long jirga had reportedly faced difficulties in finalizing agreements, with some issues remaining unresolved, as noted by jirga member Syed Raza Hussain. Despite these setbacks, the provincial government reiterated that the consultation process was ongoing.
The conflict in Kurram has escalated over recent months, with clashes leading to the loss of more than 130 lives and leaving over 180 others injured. One of the major incidents occurred on November 21, when an ambush on two police-escorted convoys resulted in 52 deaths. Following this, fighting between rival clans increased, leading to an “indefinite ceasefire” being agreed upon on December 6.
The violent situation has caused significant disruptions, including shortages of food, fuel, and medical supplies. Road closures have made it difficult for residents to access essential services, and gas shortages have forced the closure of many local businesses, including tandoors and restaurants.
In response to the crisis, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) provided Rs150 million worth of relief goods for distribution among those affected. The provincial government is also using a helicopter to deliver essential medicines to the region and airlifting the injured to Peshawar.
Barrister Saif emphasized that lasting peace in the region requires the elimination of weapons and bunkers, in line with the provincial cabinet’s decision. He urged the public to avoid propagating misinformation on social media and expressed hope that the ongoing consultations would lead to a resolution of the issue, which has persisted for over 120 years.
