SWABI: Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM) leaders and workers staged a protest here the other day to express solidarity with Chaman protesters, and demanded practical steps to end their grievances.

The PTM activists gathered in Razaar Tehsil Headquarters and staged a demonstration there. They were holding placards inscribed with slogans advocating peace, and chanted slogans in favour of the Chaman protesters.

The protesters marched through Swabi-Mardan Road and gathered at the main Chowk.

On the occasion, Liaqat Yousafzai, a member of PTM central committee, said situation at the Chaman border remained tense as clashes between the law enforcement agencies and protesters were continuing. He said it was the responsibility of the government to sit across the table with protesters and resolve their issues.

“We want a negotiated settlement to the issue to restore normalcy in Chaman,” he said, adding the government should shun its ‘rigid’ stand and talk to the protesters.

Khairul Amin, PTM’s provincial coordinator, said business activities in the area had remained suspended for days. He also condemned the arrest of protesters, and use of force in which several protesters and law enforcement personnel were injured.

“If the government shows flexibility, the situation will improve,” he said.

Other PTM leaders also called for meeting the demands of the protesters so that cross-border activities could resume.

Published in Dawn, June 10th, 2024