In a significant development highlighting unity and cooperation in Pakistan’s tribal regions, senior tribal elders have reaffirmed their unwavering support for the country's security forces. The announcement comes at a critical time, as efforts to maintain peace and stability continue in areas historically impacted by militancy and unrest.
The reaffirmation took place during a jirga—a traditional tribal council meeting—attended by local elders, law enforcement officials, and community representatives. The gathering was aimed at strengthening coordination between the communities and the state apparatus in dealing with internal security threats, promoting social harmony, and addressing local grievances through dialogue.
A Historic Relationship of Mutual Support
The relationship between the tribal population and Pakistan’s security forces has evolved significantly over the past two decades. Following the post-9/11 regional upheaval and the spread of militancy into the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), the need for collaboration between locals and law enforcement became increasingly clear. Over the years, security forces have conducted numerous operations to root out terrorism, often relying on the support and intelligence provided by tribal elders and local lashkars (community militias).
During the recent jirga, tribal leaders reiterated their determination to prevent the resurgence of terrorism and pledged to continue cooperating with the authorities in identifying suspicious activities and resisting extremist ideologies. “Peace is our shared goal, and we stand with our security forces in achieving it,” one elder stated.
Commitment to Peaceful Coexistence
The elders emphasized that sustainable peace can only be achieved when the local population actively participates in maintaining law and order. They appreciated the sacrifices made by both the military and local civilians, acknowledging the high cost of the conflict that has afflicted the region for years.
Their vow to support the state’s efforts is not only symbolic but also practical. Tribal areas often serve as front-line regions in the fight against militancy. As such, the involvement of tribal elders—who hold traditional authority and respect within their communities—is crucial for diffusing tensions and promoting counter-extremist narratives.
The jirga also highlighted the importance of development projects and social upliftment in maintaining long-term peace. Elders called on the government to increase its investment in education, healthcare, and infrastructure in the tribal districts, now part of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province after the 2018 constitutional merger. They argued that a lack of basic facilities and economic opportunities often leads to frustration and makes youth vulnerable to radicalization.
Building Trust and Strengthening Institutions
Security officials present at the meeting welcomed the elders' support and reiterated their commitment to working in partnership with local communities. They stressed that maintaining peace is a joint responsibility and that institutional trust must be preserved through transparency, respect, and justice.
The renewed pledge by tribal leaders is also expected to enhance public trust in the ongoing integration of the former FATA into the national framework. While the merger was a step in the right direction, challenges remain in fully incorporating these regions into the mainstream governance system. Ensuring that the voices of tribal communities are heard—and their concerns addressed—is essential for a successful transition.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the positive developments, challenges remain. Sporadic incidents of violence, cross-border threats, and the lingering presence of extremist elements mean that vigilance is still necessary. The tribal elders acknowledged these risks and urged the youth to remain alert and report any activities that may undermine regional peace.
Moreover, some tribal areas still face issues related to land disputes, displacement, and inadequate legal mechanisms. In this context, the role of traditional jirgas remains vital in conflict resolution, though they must increasingly align with constitutional and human rights standards.
Conclusion
The vow by tribal elders to continue supporting Pakistan’s security forces sends a powerful message of unity and resilience. Their partnership is not just essential for countering extremism, but also for building a future where peace, development, and justice prevail. The jirga's outcomes highlight the importance of grassroots engagement and the irreplaceable role of traditional leadership in modern state-building efforts.
By reinforcing these bonds of trust and cooperation, Pakistan can hope to ensure lasting peace in its tribal regions—transforming them from conflict zones into beacons of progress and stability.
Reference: قبائلی عمائدین کا سکیورٹی فورسز سے تعاون جاری رکھنے کا عزم
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