Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur having been the first to question military action within Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s trouble spots, has now come out in public support of the Pakistan Army’s efforts to eliminate militancy. His political posturing is not merely that, it is also the recognition of the hard realities on the ground and a salute to the unparalleled sacrifices made by Pakistan’s security forces.
Only a few days ago, Gandapur had criticized the effectiveness of the current military operations in Bajaur. He had called for debate in the provincial assembly, citing concern regarding the loss of civilian lives and the deterioration of public confidence, but following the chairing of the apex committee meeting in Peshawar, he appreciated the gravity of the threat and the imperative of combined civil-military action. The Chief Minister reiterated that the Army is not an occupation force but a guest, here on invitation of the government to safeguard the citizens. His words now project a much-needed convergence with national security priorities.
This choice at this juncture is timely. Militants belonging to proscribed groups like the TTP and IS-K persist in taking advantage of the terrain in the region and weak governance. These factions work with brutal strategy, taking cover in civilian surroundings and employing local civilians as human shields. It is civilian unrest or protest that does not fuel the instability of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, but the ever-looming threat of terrorism. Gandapur now admits that effective military operations, combined with civilian monitoring, are needed in order to bring back peace.
Pakistani security forces have already sacrificed a lot in this struggle. Thousands of soldiers have made the ultimate sacrifice in order to recapture land from extremist occupation. From Swat’s valleys to North Waziristan’s hills, the Pakistan Army has struggled, retaking land and constructing schools, hospitals, and roads. These were not operations; they were national survival sacrifices. Gandapur’s endorsement now provides much-needed political support to that struggle.
Significantly, the Chief Minister also made a public announcement that tribal jirgas would be conducted in merged districts from August 2. The traditional jirgas will provide opportunities for locals to be heard, allaying fears and establishing confidence. Gandapur also assured that future security operations will include comprehensive coordination between police, intelligence, and the civil administration.
Another critical measure is the compensation scheme for the victims of violence. The families of those martyred, whether civilians or military personnel, will be paid 10 million rupees. The injured will be compensated 2.5 million. This is not simply economic relief; it is a pronouncement that the state stands with those who stand in front of harm.
The Chief Minister also touched on how the role of foreign propaganda is helping to fuel public skepticism. He explained that the hostile intelligence agencies are propagating false information to create a rift between the people and their guardians. Pakistan cannot be tricked into it. Narratives that seek to weaken the Army only serve those who want to see the country divided and vulnerable. Gandapur’s call to expose such agendas is a timely reminder of the information warfare being waged alongside the physical one.
This is more than a policy change. This is a moment of unity and clarity. By supporting the Pakistan Army and opting for responsible, people-focused security policies, Gandapur has taken the path of bravery and responsibility. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s destiny relies on such leadership, one that sees the sacrifices, the threats in the future, and the strength in being united.
In a province that has been violently disfigured for so long, this alignment of civilian leaders and military is an indication of hope. It is an indication that Pakistan will not give way to terror. Firmly and with committed hearts, the struggle for peace will continue.
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