of the matter. The people there want peace and will not hesitate to render unmatched sacrifices once convinced that the government means what it says and will treat them with respect and dignity.
We have wasted ten precious years in fighting a war – and that too on our own soil. Had that time been utilised into mainstreaming Fata we could have achieved very positive results. We not only lost that moment but squandered everything there in the name of peace for the region. We neither found peace nor developed Fata to bring it at par with the rest of the country.
It is heartening to see the government taking the right course of action by entering into negotiations with the Taliban. The efforts made so far are worthy of commendation despite a lack of really representative local people in the government’s committee constituted for the purpose.
Contacts for peaceful resolution of the problem have already been established and now efforts are ongoing for direct talks between the two sides (the government’s committee and the Taliban) in and around Bannu. A member of the Taliban committee, Professor Ibrahim Khan, has already expressed optimism provided the government shows magnanimity in resolving the matter. This brings one to the conclusion that this is the right and the only way of moving forwards to resolve this complex problem and restore peace in the region.
The prime minister deserves all appreciation for the political acumen shown in visiting his rival Imran Khan at the latter’s residence in Bani Gala and asking him to join hands with him in the struggle to quell the strife unleashed on us because of the wrong policies of the dictator. This good gesture was equally reciprocated by Imran Khan when he offered unequivocal support for the peace process and even to use of force if some quarters do not believe in peaceful resolution of this problem.
Their unanimity on this score has frustrated those calling for a military operation and for abandoning the dialogue process. This has sent a clear message to everybody that the leaders of the two major political parties are firmly resolved to pursuing the negotiation process – which is a right step in the right direction.
Concluded
The writer is a former ambassador.
Email: wazirukhotmail.com