Afrasiab Khattak calls Pakistani Government ‘Colonial’ following PTM ban

Afrasiab Khattak, a former member of Pakistan’s Senate, has condemned the government’s decision to ban the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM), calling it a “colonial step.” He believes this decision will only strengthen the Pashtun people’s resolve for justice.

On Sunday, October 6, Khattak wrote on his X account: “Banning the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement just days before a peaceful assembly is a typical colonial move against oppressed people.”

He also added that the movement was banned by a government that had recently released criminals from Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan from prison.

Khattak emphasized that this “unjust” action would further fuel the determination of young Pashtuns to fight for their rights.

Earlier, the federal government of Pakistan issued a statement banning PTM, citing its “anti-government rhetoric and incitement of chaos.” The government has officially added the movement to its list of banned organizations.

The Pashtun Tahafuz Movement gained momentum following the killing of Ghilaman Wazir in Islamabad, and a large Pashtun tribal assembly (jirga) is planned for October 20 in the tribal areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

All Pakistan’s Pashtun leaders and social and political activists have been invited to attend the assembly. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has confirmed his participation, and Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan has also expressed its support for the event.

The Pashtun Tahafuz Movement has emerged as a significant protest movement in Pakistan over the past few years, advocating against the perceived discrimination and marginalization of Pashtuns by the government.

This recent ban is likely to escalate tensions, as it has further polarized the political landscape in Pakistan. The upcoming jirga may become a focal point for expressing grievances and demanding rights, while the government’s stance may deepen the divide between the state and the Pashtun community.

International human rights groups are also closely monitoring the situation, as the conflict could lead to increased unrest in the region.

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