SWAT: The members of civil society in Swat have established a public “almirah library” in the memory of Maulana Khan Zeb, the ANP leader who was assassinated in a targeted attack in Bajaur on July 10.

The outdoor library, designed like a cupboard, is part of a wider campaign initiated by Fayaz Khan, a Pakistani residing in Australia, who has already set up several similar almirah libraries across Swat, including at tourist destinations and public parks, to promote habit of reading.

The inauguration ceremony of the library was attended by a large number of civil society members, youth, and elders. Senior bureaucrat and former KP secretary of information Arshad Khan along with Fayaz Zafar, Afzal Shah and others formally inaugurated the library.

Talking to Dawn, Fayaz Khan said that the initiative was meant to promote a healthy reading culture. He said that it was established to honour Maulana Khan Zeb. “His sudden and tragic death shocked us all. In his memory, we decided to name one of our almirah libraries after him. It is a small tribute, but one made with great pride,” he said.

Arshad Khan expressed his admiration for Maulana Khan Zeb, calling him an enlightened leader, who truly understood the challenges of Pashtun region. “He was a seeker of peace and highlighted the untapped potential of our land. His death is a profound loss, but it has also united Pashtuns in grief and solidarity,” he remarked.

He stressed the need for reading books, describing books as vital source of knowledge and enlightenment.

Speakers at the event encouraged book lovers to not only read from the almirah library but also donate books and help to expand the initiative for the benefit of people.

Published in Dawn, July 14th, 2025