Kurram violence has sparked strong criticism from Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari. He blamed the Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur-led Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government for failing to maintain peace in the region.
In a statement on Sunday, Bilawal condemned the government’s inaction. He accused the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) administration of siding with terrorists through its silence. “The government’s negligence is criminal,” Bilawal said.
The Kurram district has been gripped by deadly tribal clashes for months. The latest wave of violence erupted last week when gunmen attacked civilian convoys on Thursday, leaving 44 dead. The clashes have claimed over 70 lives so far, with many others injured.
A day earlier, KP government spokesperson Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif confirmed a temporary ceasefire. He announced that the warring tribes had agreed to a seven-day truce and would exchange hostages and bodies. The government’s delegation, led by Saif, visited Parachinar — Kurram’s main city — to negotiate with tribal leaders.
Bilawal expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives. He criticized the KP government for being absent while the district suffered. “Kurram is burning, and the provincial administration is nowhere to be seen,” he said. He emphasized that ensuring law and order is the provincial government’s primary duty and accused the PTI government of failing to protect its citizens.
To address the situation, Bilawal directed KP Governor Faisal Karim Kundi to submit a detailed report on Kurram violence.
The escalating violence has drawn widespread condemnation. The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) has urged authorities to act immediately. In a recent statement, the HRCP warned that the frequent clashes have grown into a humanitarian crisis.
The violence in Kurram remains a pressing issue, with demands for accountability and immediate action growing louder.
