By Khalid Khan
The tragic terrorist attack in Kurram, which claimed the lives of innocent passengers, has shaken the province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. However, amidst this harrowing incident, the silence of Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has been deafening. His failure to issue even a formal condolence statement reflects the indifference and apathy of the provincial leadership under his watch.
Terrorism and lawlessness have been steadily escalating in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with incidents becoming alarmingly frequent in areas like South and North Waziristan, Bannu, Lakki Marwat, and now Kurram. While the restoration of peace falls under the domain of the civil administration, the provincial government, led by CM Ali Amin Gandapur, seems more engrossed in divisive politics than in fulfilling its primary responsibility of ensuring the safety and security of its citizens.
Security Deterioration in KP: A Provincial Failure
Under the leadership of Gandapur and the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has witnessed a steady erosion of peace. The absence of strategic planning to counter the resurgence of militancy in the region is glaring. Despite the worsening security situation, the provincial leadership has failed to implement a coherent policy to safeguard its people. Instead, resources and energy are being diverted to political confrontations with opponents, leaving the region vulnerable to extremist elements.
The recent Kurram attack is not an isolated incident but a part of a broader pattern of escalating violence. Yet, the chief minister’s lack of action or even symbolic empathy highlights a disturbing disconnect between the government and the people it is supposed to serve.
Where Is the Leadership?
In times of crisis, leadership requires compassion, decisiveness, and presence. Unfortunately, Gandapur’s administration has exhibited none of these traits. His silence on the Kurram tragedy is not just a political misstep but a moral failure. It sends a message to the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa that their lives and suffering are secondary to political gamesmanship.
This apathy also raises questions about the priorities of the PTI government. Has it become so consumed with its confrontational approach to politics that it can no longer govern effectively? The provincial government’s inability to address the growing threat of terrorism is a stark reminder of the consequences of prioritizing political power over public welfare.
A Call for Accountability
The people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa deserve better. They need a government that prioritizes their safety and well-being over political showdowns. Gandapur’s administration must take responsibility for its failures and immediately shift its focus towards restoring peace and stability in the region.
Concrete steps must be taken to strengthen law enforcement agencies, improve intelligence sharing, and engage with communities to counter the spread of extremist ideologies. The provincial government must also work closely with the federal government to develop a comprehensive counterterrorism strategy that addresses the root causes of militancy in the region.
Moreover, Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur owes an apology to the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, particularly the grieving families in Kurram. A formal statement of condolence and a clear outline of the government’s plan to address the security situation would be a start. But words alone are not enough; they must be backed by decisive and sustained action.
Conclusion
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa stands at a crossroads. The province has endured years of conflict and hardship, and its people deserve a government that stands with them in times of crisis. Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur’s failure to address the Kurram tragedy is a betrayal of the trust placed in him by the people of the province.
The time for political distractions is over. The provincial government must rise to the occasion, acknowledge its shortcomings, and work towards restoring the faith of the people it serves. Anything less would be a disservice to the sacrifices of those who have lost their lives to terrorism and to the resilience of the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.