QUETTA: The Balochistan chief minister has thanked Nawab Aslam Raisani, the chief of Sarwan tribe for resolving the Wadh conflict.

On Saturday, a reconciliation jirga, led by Mr Raisani, mediated a ceasefire between the warring factions of Mengal tribe, bringing an end to clashes that kept the town tense for three days.

The chief minister, Mir Abdul Qudoos Bizenjo, has also expressed satisfaction over the restoration of normal life in Wadh.

He said warring factions trusted the jirga and paved way for the restoration of peace. “Dialogue is the best way for peaceful resolution of mutual disputes.”

Mr Bizenjo expressed hope the jirga’s efforts will lead to a permanent solution to the conflict. “There will be lasting peace in the entire province including Wadh.”

He added that the restoration of peace and order and the resolution of tribal disputes was his government’s priority.

Wadh, an area of Khuzdar district, has been witnessing intense clashes since Wednesday.

Officials said the gun battle started between armed men of BNP-Mengal President Sardar Akhtar Mengal and Mir Shafiq Mengal. A heavy exchange of fire took place between the two armed groups, during which heavy weapons were used.

The gunfire continued for several hours before the Khuzdar administration held negotiations with the elders of both groups. The rival groups agreed to a temporary ceasefire till Thursday after negotiations with Kalat Division Commissioner Dawood Khilji, Khuzdar Deputy Commissioner retired captain Jamil Baloch and senior police officials.

Published in Dawn, July 24th, 2023