“Open Torkham Or Face Resistance” - Grand Jirga Issues Strong Warning

(MENAFN- Tribal News Network) A grand jirga was held at Jamia Masjid Quba Jirga Hall in Landi Kotal tehsil of Khyber District against the closure of the Torkham Border and the difficulties faced by Pakistani transporters, drivers, students, and traders stranded in Afghanistan. Leaders of political parties, customs clearing agents, transporters, and local elders participated in the jirga.

After the jirga, participants also held a protest rally on the Pak-Afghan Highway. Speakers said that Pakistani citizens stranded in Afghanistan for the past several months are facing severe hardships, yet no effective measures have been taken so far for their return.

Participants unanimously decided that after the third day of Eid, all political parties, transporters, and relevant organizations would announce a joint course of action.

Also Read: An Uncertain Eid for Afghan Families Returning Through Torkham

They warned that if a decision is made to block the Pak-Afghan Highway, the restriction would also apply to government officials and official vehicles.

Addressing the jirga, Shah Rahman Shinwari said that constitutional clauses benefiting the ruling class are implemented immediately, while clauses serving the public interest are ignored. He added that livelihoods at Torkham Border have been the right of local people for centuries, and that bilateral trade benefits the people of the area.

He further stated that political leadership has failed to create awareness among the public, therefore all tribes and communities must unite to make major decisions.

Speakers made it clear that the protest would continue until Pakistani trucks, drivers, and other citizens stranded in Afghanistan are allowed to return home.

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