Tarz Press: On the final day of the Jirga, Manzoor Pashteen, leader of the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM), made several key demands, emphasizing that both the Pakistani military and the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) must withdraw from Pashtun regions, as they are responsible for the violence in these areas.
On Sunday, October 13, Pashteen accused the Pakistani government of intentional killings and conducting “dollar wars,” asserting that the Jirga must decide that security in Pashtun areas should henceforth be maintained by the Pashtuns themselves. He added, “Both the military and the Taliban must leave Pashtun territories because they are the ones creating insecurity. Pashtuns should recognize the Pakistani military, ISI, MI, and all Taliban—whether ‘good’ or ‘bad’—as terrorist groups.” Pashteen also proposed that the Pashtuns form a national army of 200,000 to protect their lives and property.
Pashteen further addressed the Durand Line, stating that it is unacceptable to the Pashtuns. He emphasized that for the Pashtuns, the Durand Line holds no legitimacy and should be reopened for travel and trade as in the past. Pashteen also criticized the current legal framework in Pakistan, pointing out that the laws imposed by the British during colonial rule in the region remain in effect. He argued, “These laws were not made for free people; they were designed for slaves. The Jirga must decide whether Pashtuns can secure their lives and safety under these conditions.”
In closing, Pashteen stated, “Nations with governments and security do not have their people killed, disappeared, displaced, or robbed. The Pashtuns must now decide if they want to live ‘in slavery’ or fight for their security and freedom.”
