Jirga declares eight-month truce in Kurram

PARACHINAR/ KOHAT: The belligerent tribes agreed to a peace accord (Amn Tegha), declared for eight months in Kurram tribal district ahead of Eidul fitr, on Saturday.

Following the truce, efforts are also underway to reopen the main highway and devise a strategy for lasting peace.

According to Jirga members Haji Kamal and Haji Asghar, a tribal jirga was held at Qila Abbas Alamdar in the lower part of Kurram tribal district, attended by elders from both sides, the deputy commissioner, security forces and district administration officials. After extensive discussions, the peace accord (Amn Tegha) was placed and the jirga members stated that the truce would last for eight months, and any party violating the agreement would face action under the Kohat Agreement. On this occasion, Kurram district Deputy Commissioner Ashfaq Ahmed described the peace truce as a welcome step and urged tribal elders to cooperate with the government in maintaining peace for a sustainable and long-term resolution. Due to ongoing firing incidents and clashes, the main highway connecting the Afghan border and other transportation routes have remained closed for nearly six months, causing severe difficulties for residents in accessing essential food supplies, daily necessities and medical treatment. Social activist Mir Afzal Khan expressed the hope that the peace truce would soon help establish stability in the region, allowing the people of Kurram district to celebrate Eid peacefully and breathe a sigh of relief. Tribal leaders Saleem Khan and Zamin Hussain welcomed all government initiatives for maintaining peace in the region.