Akora Khattak suicide attack: JI chief questions govt’s response

NOWSHERA: Expressing dissatisfaction over the performance of investigative agencies and the government’s response to Darul Uloom Haqqania suicide attack, Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) chief Hafiz Naeemur Rehman on Tuesday said that Shaheed Maulana Hamidul Haq and Shaheed had played tremendous role in promoting peace and brotherhood in country.

Speaking at Darul Uloom Haqqania during his visit, he said that despite five days passing since the tragedy, neither Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif nor Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi had visited the seminary or issued any official statement.

He said that Darul Uloom Haqqania had always played a crucial role in maintaining peace and has maintained good relations with the state. However, the lack of government response raises serious concerns about security, he said, adding “if such a vital religious institution and its scholars remain unsafe, then the entire nation is at risk.”

Hafiz Naeem paid tribute to the late Maulana Hamidul Haq, his father Maulana Samiul Haq, and Darul Uloom Haqqania for their invaluable contributions to religious education and peace in the region.

He warned that the absence of substantial progress in the investigation reflects the government’s misplaced priorities. He appreciated the ulema of Darul Uloom Haqqania for maintaining composure despite the grave incident.

Hafiz Naeem underscored the close ties between Pakistan and Afghanistan, urging both nations to establish a long-term, sustainable policy for mutual peace and stability.

During his visit to offer condolences to the Haqqani family and the seminary administration, Hafiz Naeem was accompanied by key party leaders.

He said that the Akora Khattak tragedy has not only caused a significant loss to the country but has also sent a negative message worldwide. He criticised the government for its failure to ensure the safety of religious scholars and institutions. He insisted that instead of superficial investigations, a thorough probe should be conducted to expose the real culprits behind the incident.

About Pakistan-Afghanistan relations, Hafiz Naeem stated that both nations must cooperate to prevent their territories from being used for terrorist activities. He urged the governments of both countries to engage in dialogues and negotiations to resolve their issues amicably, as instability in one country directly affects the other.

He also criticized the overall security situation in the country, warning that if a city like Nowshera - considered the gateway to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa -is vulnerable, then the state of security in the rest of the country is highly concerning.

Commenting on mid-term elections, Hafiz Naeem made it clear that Jamaat-e-Islami does not see the need for new elections at this time. “Form-45 from the previous elections exists, and a judicial commission should be formed to conduct an impartial review and make a final decision based on it,” he added

He argued that those advocating for mid-term elections were only trying to protect past electoral fraud.