THE differences among the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan groups have increased, which has also created problems in the negotiations process between the government and the TTP. The TTP emir Fazlullah has removed one of his commanders, Khan Said alias Sajna, from his post while on the other hand the supporters of commander Shehr Yar and Sajna have also been fighting each other. As a result many people have lost their lives.

Both groups are very strong and have enough weapons and manpower [to] affect the peace process if their differences are not resolved in a timely manner; both of them have different opinions in this regard. The restoration of peace in Pakistan is a long-standing demand of the citizens. … During the past few years thousands of people belonging to different segments of society have been killed and injured while infrastructure has been destroyed. …

[On the other hand] existing problems like unemployment and price hike [have also] increased.... That is why the weal­thy are leaving the country, but the poor are unable even to shift to safer places within the country. Nowadays another menace in the shape of extortion, targeted killings and kidnapping for ransom has gripped society. … Well-organised armed gangs seem to be using the name of the Taliban. People are sent messages to pay huge amo­unts or face their wrath; those who refuse … are targeted through improvised explosive devices or kidnapped. … The blasts … have become so common … because IEDs and hand grenades are easily available in the tribal regions. …— (May 15)

Selected and translated by Ali Hazrat Bacha.

Published in Dawn, May 16th, 2014