Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari has criticized the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government, led by Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, over its handling of the escalating violence in Kurram district. Calling the provincial administration’s inaction a failure, Bilawal condemned the “criminal negligence” of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government, asserting that its silence was akin to supporting terrorists.
Bilawal’s remarks follow a series of tribal clashes in Kurram, where dozens have been killed and several others injured. The violence, reignited last week, began with gunmen attacking civilian vehicles, resulting in at least 44 fatalities on Thursday. So far, over 70 people have lost their lives in this wave of unrest.
Speaking on the issue, Bilawal lamented the absence of security and accountability, stating, “Kurram is burning in the fire of unrest while the KP government is absent.” He urged the KP government to fulfill its responsibility of maintaining law and order and safeguarding citizens. He has also directed KP Governor Faisal Karim Kundi to submit a comprehensive report on the situation.
On Saturday, KP government spokesperson Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif announced a seven-day ceasefire between the warring tribes, with both sides agreeing to return hostages and bodies. The delegation also visited Parachinar, the district’s main city, to mediate discussions.
The violence has drawn criticism not only from Bilawal but also from the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP). The HRCP has called for urgent action, warning that the frequency and intensity of clashes have reached a humanitarian crisis level.
