IN the midst of tensions between the Federal and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa governments, the Grand Jirga, convened on Thursday with the participation of key leaders including Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Governor Faisal Karim Kundi, marks a significant and positive development. This gathering not only reflects a collective commitment to national security but also demonstrates a mature approach to governance—one that prioritizes the national interests over political rivalries.
It is important to emphasize that this coming together should not be seen as a failure or surrender by any party. Rather, it is a testament to the leadership’s willingness to engage in a meaningful dialogue and find common ground. Acknowledging the necessity for cooperation reflects maturity and an understanding that collaboration can lead to more effective solutions in the face of shared challenges.
The backdrop to this Jirga is fraught with challenges. The province has witnessed a troubling uptick in terrorist incidents in recent months with political tension only adding to the confusion and uncertainty. However, the fact that leaders from various political backgrounds came together to improve law and order situation in the province is really commendable. It sends a strong message that the country’s leadership is capable of uniting for the sake of national interests and public safety. This spirit of collaboration is essential. The violence and turmoil resulting from extremist groups has threatened the lives of local populace. While it is essential to take a firm stand against terrorism, the Jirga’s focus on dialogue with non-violent dissenting parties is a crucial step. Empowering Chief Minister Gandapur to lead talks with those who do not espouse violence and who respect the Constitution is a forward-thinking strategy. It indicates a willingness to engage in constructive dialogue rather than further entrenching divisions through conflict.
The establishment of this Jirga should not be seen merely as a one-off event but rather as a model for future cooperation among political leaders. The mature handling of the situation in KP can serve as a template for broader national discussions. The challenges facing Pakistan—whether security-related, economic, or social—require a concerted effort from all political factions. The spirit of cooperation demonstrated in Peshawar should inspire similar gatherings at the federal level, where all political parties can come together to tackle the challenges the country faces. Political stability is essential for sustaining and building upon the gains the country has made in recent months. Peshawar Jirga represented a beacon of hope—a clear indication that it is possible for political leaders to rise above their differences and work towards a common goal. Only through such unity can the nation hope to achieve the stability and progress it so desperately needs.
