PESHAWAR: After 13 people were killed in clashes over disputed land in Kurram tribal district, finally, the rival groups have agreed on a ceasefire Thursday after talks with a 30-member peace jirga since clashes began on July 7.
The Kurram administration reported on Thursday that the first armed conflict broke out last Friday afternoon when armed tribesmen took positions and started fighting, leaving at least 23 injured and five dead. The district administration first claimed they and a local Jirga were responsible for brokering a ceasefire. But during the evening, fighting flared up again in many Tari Mangal neighbourhoods known for having poor law and order situations.
Since last Tuesday, a 30-member peace jirga headed by Commissioner Kohat has tirelessly held numerous meetings with the elders from both sides.
Gohar Bangash, the jirga member, stated Security personnel would be stationed in bunkers per the ceasefire agreement to monitor compliance with the ceasefire agreement. Later on, the common land delineation (Shamilat) issue will also be addressed.
Dr. Qaiser Abbas, MS Parachinar, stated that at least 13 people were killed, and about 90 others have been hurt in the fighting over the past five days. The ceasefire accord gives a ray of hope for a break from the violence that has wracked the region, but the situation is still tense.
According to federal minister Sajjid Hussain Turi, the jirga reached an agreement on the ceasefire after talks with the opposing parties. He also observed that the tribesmen had begun to leave their bunkers, indicating their intention to diffuse the situation. —APP
