SOUTH WAZIRISTAN: Political leaders, notables, civil society representatives, social activists and youth on Saturday called for measures to restore peace to Lower South Waziristan.
The jirga was held in Wana to discuss the deteriorating law and order in the region.
The participants expressed concern over the growingincidents ofinsecurityincludingkidnappingsfor ransom, targeted killings, bomb explosions and other acts of violence that have hit the region during the past several months.
They stressed the need for a collective response to address the worsening security situation and safeguard the lives and property of residents.
The jirga brought together representatives of various political parties, members of civil society organisations, notables, social workers and people from different schools ofthought.
Participants shared their concerns about the prevailing security challenges and proposed a number of recommendations aimed at achieving lasting peace in the region.
Addressing the gathering, speakers noted that the law and order in Wana and other parts of Lower South Waziristan had worsened over the past one and a half years.
They said incidents of kidnappings, targeted killings, bomb attacks and other forms of militancy had spiked in recent months, creating fear and uncertainty among the local population.
According to the speakers, the deteriorating security environment has not only disrupted the lives of residents but has also adversely affected business and economic activities.
They observed that traders, students, labourers and ordinary citizens were facing a host of challenges due to persistent insecurity, while investment and commercial activities had come to a halt.
The participants emphasised that sustainable development and economic prosperity could not be achieved without lasting peace. They maintained that restoring public confidence and ensuring security were essential prerequisites for the region’s progress.
Among the proposals discussed during the jirga was a recommendation to launch a broad-based consultation process involving people from all segments of society, particularly tribal elders and influential community figures.
Participants suggested that delegations should visit local communities and hold door-to-door meetings to gather public opinion and build consensus on measures aimed at promoting peace.
The jirga also expressed concern over the large number of security-related incidents reported during the past year, saying that these developments had heightened feelings of insecurity among residents.
Following consultation, the jirga decided to convene a second Waziristan Qaumi Peace Jirga on June 10 to discuss the security situation and formulate a strategy to bring peace.