Karachi
Baloch rights activist Mahrang Baloch condemned the use of force by Pakistan’s armed forces against the Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM). In a statement, she criticized the violence used to stop the Pashtun National Jirga and the recent assassination attempt on PTM leader Manzoor Pashteen. Baloch called for an immediate end to the force used against Pashtun political activists.
The PTM has organized a national Jirga on October 11, in the Khyber district to address issues such as ongoing violence, terrorism, and targeted killings. The movement, established in 2018, advocates for the rights of Pashtuns, focusing on concerns such as extrajudicial killings, enforced disappearances, and landmine threats. Led by Manzoor Pashteen, the PTM has highlighted human rights violations against the Pashtun people.
Baloch urged human rights organizations to take urgent notice of the state violence being directed at political and human rights activists. Despite assurances of security from the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the police carried out a raid on the Jirga organizers, setting fire to their camps and arresting peaceful activists.
PTM activists have reportedly returned to the site, setting up their camp once more, determined to proceed with the planned Jirga, though official approval for the gathering has not yet been granted. The PTM continues its efforts for Pashtun rights despite these challenges.
