In a significant development aimed at reinforcing peace and stability in the tribal district of Mohmand, a grand jirga comprising security forces, local administration, and tribal elders was convened at Ghalanai headquarters. The jirga comes at a critical time as Operation Sarbakaf continues in the adjacent Bajaur district, targeting terrorist elements along the Pak-Afghan border.
Security forces and civil administration reaffirmed their commitment to upholding the hard-earned peace in Mohmand, emphasising that the current stability is the result of years of joint sacrifices made by both state institutions and local communities during the height of militancy. The jirga acknowledged that while Mohmand remains comparatively peaceful, vigilance and cooperation remain essential, especially in light of renewed terrorist threats in neighboring regions.
As part of the strategic dialogue, plans were discussed to strengthen the traditional jirga system, aligning it with state mechanisms to resolve local disputes and preempt potential unrest. It was emphasized that where the economy falters, instability often follows, a reality well understood by both the state and the tribes.
Key pledges made during the session included:
Continued collaboration between tribal elders and security forces to prevent the resurgence of militant elements.
Special measures to address local grievances and development delays.
Commitment to local recruitment for public sector jobs to address youth unemployment and reduce radicalisation risks.
Advocacy for the revival and expansion of the Pak-Afghan trade route through Mohmand, seen as a strategic economic artery vital for long-term regional stability.
A renewed call to increase school enrolments, as nearly half of Mohmand’s children remain out of the formal education system, a gap seen as a security risk in the long run.
The ceremony concluded with tributes to martyrs, a symbolic tree plantation for peace, and renewed vows by tribal leaders to support any future efforts, military or civic, needed to sustain peace and development in the region.
As Operation Sarbakaf continues to push back terrorist networks in Bajaur, efforts like the Mohmand jirga highlight the importance of community-driven stabilisation alongside kinetic military actions.
