Maulana Khanzeb’s murder: Family rejects financial aid, demands judicial probe

KHAR: The family of slain Awami National Party (ANP) leader Maulana Khanzeb has rejected the financial aid and reiterated its demand for the formation of a judicial commission to probe the gruesome murder case.

The family of ANP leader and peace activist Maulana Khanzeb, who was martyred in an attack on July 10 at Shandai Mor in Bajaur district, rejected the government’s offer of Rs10 million compensation package.

The family maintained that they did not need monetary assistance, but instead demanded a high-level transparent judicial inquiry into the incident.

The attack occurred while Maulana Khanzeb was actively engaged in the ongoing Aman Pasoon, or Peace Campaign. Along with him, his security guard and companion Sherzada was also martyred, while Dr Tariq, Sheikh Shahsawar, and Usman sustained injuries. Following the incident, a case was registered at Khar Police Station against unknown assailants.

Maulana Khanzeb’s elder brother Sheikh Jehanzada said that while the family had not nominated anyone, the fact remained that it was still unclear who had carried out the killing.

He urged the federal and provincial governments as well as the concerned departments to form a judicial commission to ensure transparent probe into the case.

His elder son Ehtesham Afghan also confirmed that although the government repeatedly offered the family Rs10 million in aid, they refused to accept it. He emphasised that instead of financial assistance, they demanded a judicial inquiry led by the powerful authorities.

The family has categorically said that until a judicial commission was established, they will not accept any form of financial compensation. They added that the future course of action would be decided in consultation with their friends and community.