A divisional jirga in Kohat on Saturday brought together political leaders, religious scholars, and tribal elders who collectively reaffirmed their commitment to inter-sect harmony and vowed to thwart any attempts by hostile elements to exploit religious differences during Muharram-ul-Haram.
Jirga Details and Attendees
The jirga was held at the Commissioner House in Kohat and was attended by deputy commissioners, district police officers, religious scholars, tribal elders, and representatives of various schools of thought from Kohat, Orakzai, Hangu, and Kurram districts.
Government's Security Commitment
Addressing the gathering, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Minister for Information and Public Relations Shafi Jan stated that maintaining law and order is the provincial government's foremost priority. He revealed that Rs131 billion has been allocated in the current fiscal year to strengthen security and public safety measures. The minister also announced that approximately 43,000 police personnel will be deployed across the province during Muharram to provide security for religious gatherings and processions. He added that 127 of the province's 614 Imambargahs and 286 of the 907 Muharram processions have been categorized as sensitive and will receive enhanced security cover. According to Jan, security arrangements include modern surveillance systems, additional personnel, and close coordination between district administrations and law enforcement agencies.
Call for Unity
Member of the National Assembly Shehryar Afridi, along with provincial lawmakers Daud Shah Afridi and Aurangzeb Orakzai, stressed the importance of Muslim unity. They warned that anti-state elements seek to exploit sectarian differences to undermine peace and stability.
Other Speeches
Commissioner Kohat Syed Motasim Billah Shah, Regional Police Officer Irfan Tariq, Justice (R) Ibn Ali, and Sunni and Shia religious leaders also addressed the gathering. They emphasized patience, tolerance, and mutual respect as the guiding principles of Muharram.
Participants' Assurance
Participants assured the government and security agencies of their full cooperation and expressed confidence that Muharram would pass peacefully through coordinated efforts by religious leaders, tribal elders, law enforcement agencies, and local communities.
