Awami National Party (ANP) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa President Mian Iftikhar Hussain has stated that the killers of Maulana Khan Zeb have still not been arrested, despite the presence of CCTV cameras at the crime scene and eyewitnesses who identified the perpetrators.
During a news conference at the Bacha Khan Markaz, he expressed concern over the circumstances surrounding Maulana’s murder, noting that the location had offices of security agencies nearby. He questioned how the criminals could remain at large, raising serious doubts about the effectiveness of law enforcement.
Mian Iftikhar Hussain emphasised that Maulana Khan Zeb’s agenda focused on peace and democracy and asked, “How was he an obstacle? Should we just forget our martyrs like this?”
He voiced his deep concerns regarding the overall law and order situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, asserting that the provincial government has completely failed to maintain order, even in the Chief Minister’s own area. He pointed out that policies from Faiz Hameed are still being implemented in the province, hinting at favouritism or protection for certain individuals. He questioned who Faiz Hameed’s favoured ones are.
He raised further concerns about the lack of action against terrorism in Bajaur, saying, “There are 72 terrorist organisations in Punjab, yet operations are predominantly carried out in the tribal areas.” He opposed military operations, stating that the people have made it clear they will neither leave their homes nor accept such operations.
Mian Iftikhar Hussain claimed that the establishment has openly undermined the ANP in elections, alleging that results have been manipulated in the last three general elections. He reminded attendees that his party has not only successfully negotiated with terrorists but has also played a leading role in operations against them.
He announced that a national peace jirga will be held on July 26 at Bacha Khan Markaz in Peshawar at 10 AM. Mr Hussain invited all schools of thought and especially the residents of the merged districts to participate in this gathering.
The ANP leader concluded by stating that this is not just a personal struggle of the ANP but a battle for the survival of the entire nation, urging all political parties to unite for peace.
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