SOUTH WAZIRISTAN: Elders in a peace jirga on Wednesday expressed concern over surge in the incidents of kidnapping for ransom, targeted killings, bomb explosions and other acts of violence here.

They stressed the need for immediate and coordinated efforts to restore peace and security in the volatile region, which, they said, had witnessed a steady rise in insecurity over the last one and a half years.

The jirga was held in Rustam Bazaar of Wana, bringing together all local political leaders, tribal elders, members of civil society, religious scholars, youth representatives, social activists, and members of various schools of thought.

The speakers observed that the worsening security situation had created a sense of fear, uncertainty and insecurity among residents. They said people in Wana and surrounding areas were increasingly concerned about their safety due to the growing number of violent incidents.

Calls for coordinated security measures without delay

According to participants, continued deterioration of law and order has severely affected public confidence and disrupted normal life across the district.

The speakers noted that the impact of insecurity extended beyond public safety and had significantly damaged economic and commercial activities in the region. Traders, labourers, students and ordinary citizens were facing growing difficulties in carrying out their daily routines.

They said business activity had declined considerably, while unemployment was increasing as investors and entrepreneurs remained reluctant to engage in economic ventures under prevailing security conditions.

Participants further stated that recurring incidents of violence had placed additional burdens on local communities.

They warned that prolonged instability was negatively affecting educational opportunities, social development and the future prospects of young people. Parents, they said, were increasingly worried about the safety and education of their children, while students often faced difficulties travelling to educational institutions.

The jirga emphasised that sustainable development, prosperity and social progress could not be achieved without lasting peace. Speakers stressed that peace was a prerequisite for economic growth, educational advancement and the overall well-being of society. They urged all stakeholders to work collectively to address the challenges confronting the region.

Several proposals aimed at promoting peace and long-term stability were presented during the gathering. Participants agreed that broader public consultation was essential for building consensus and strengthening community engagement in peacebuilding efforts. They proposed the formation of delegations comprising tribal elders, religious leaders, political representatives and youth activists to visit various localities and engage directly with residents.

The purpose of these consultations, participants said, would be to listen to public concerns, gather recommendations and formulate a comprehensive strategy for peace through collective decision-making. They emphasised that any sustainable solution must include the participation and support of all segments of society.

The jirga also expressed concern over the large number of security-related incidents reported during the past year, stating that these events had further deepened the sense of insecurity among residents.

The participants maintained that ensuring the protection of citizens’ lives and property was a fundamental responsibility of the state and called upon relevant authorities to fulfil their constitutional obligations effectively.

The gathering urged the federal and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa governments, security forces and law enforcement agencies to adopt an effective and comprehensive strategy to ensure durable peace in Lower South Waziristan.

Participants said that people of the region could no longer afford continued violence, bloodshed and uncertainty.

They called for decisive action against elements involved in destabilising the area and demanded enhanced security measures to protect civilians.

Concluding the jirga, participants reaffirmed their commitment to promoting peace, social harmony and unity among all sections of society.

They expressed hope that the government, district administration, police and relevant institutions would take the concerns of local residents seriously and implement practical measures to restore peace and stability in the district.

Among those who addressed the gathering were MNA Zubair Wazir, MPA Ajab Gul Wazir, tribal elders, religious scholars and political and social leaders.

The speakers called for urgent, sincere and effective steps to address the security challenges facing Lower South Waziristan district and ensure a peaceful environment conducive to development and prosperity.

Published in Dawn, June 11th, 2026