Khushhal Khan Kakar Accuses Government of Exploiting Pashtun Land and Resources, Demands Unity Among Pashtun Political Forces

Karachi:Khushhal Khan Kakar, Chairman of the Pashtunkhwa National Awami Party (PNA), has accused the provincial health department of being under the control of a few corrupt individuals, while also making strong statements about the exploitation of Pashtun resources and political suppression. Speaking at a public gathering in Sohrab Goth, Karachi, on the occasion of the fourth martyrdom anniversary of Mauli Shaheed Osman Khan Kakar, he reflected on the late leader’s dedication to Pashtun nationalism, his commitment to the cause, and the struggles he faced in his fight for Pashtun rights.

Kakar mentioned that despite repeated warnings, Osman Khan Kakar remained steadfast in his commitment to the nation and its struggles, even when his life was at risk. “Osman Khan Kakar was well aware of his potential martyrdom, but he refused to compromise on his principles, knowing that any deviation from his path would amount to betraying the people and weakening the struggle,” he said. The Pashtun nationalist leader emphasized that loving one’s country and people should take precedence over personal safety or familial ties, as reflected in Kakar’s sacrifice.

The party chairman further criticized the current political and constitutional framework of the country, stating that the Pakistani constitution and parliament are unwilling to grant Pashtuns and other marginalized communities their due rights over resources and autonomy. He accused the state of continuing its exploitative practices, particularly through land grabs in Pashtun-majority regions like Swat, Chitral, and Bannu, under the pretext of bogus land allotments and illegal mining operations.

Kakar also condemned the approval of the “Mines and Minerals Act” in the province, calling it a violation of Pashtun sovereignty and an attempt to strip the region of its rich natural resources, despite constitutional provisions granting provinces control over their resources. “The state institutions are bent on ignoring the constitution and the 18th Amendment, which clearly recognizes provincial rights over their mineral wealth,” he added.

In his address, Kakar strongly denounced the Pakistani government’s policy of economic imbalance, particularly in terms of resource allocation. “While Punjab continues to receive substantial federal funding, the Pashtun, Baloch, Sindhi, and Seraiki people remain deprived,” he said, pointing out that the federal government allocated over Rs 4,500 billion to Punjab while neglecting the needs of the Pashtun regions.

The leader also highlighted the dire situation in Pashtun areas, including Bajaur, former FATA, Bannu, and Dera Ismail Khan, where terrorism, instability, and lawlessness have been imposed. “The announcement by President Trump regarding the region’s resources is tantamount to an occupation of Pashtun lands, as it is only in Pashtunkhwa that valuable resources like oil and minerals are found,” he remarked. He also criticized the government’s neglect in addressing Pashtun grievances, especially in the war against terrorism, where Pashtuns have borne the brunt of violence.

Khushhal Khan Kakar urged Pashtun political forces to unite, saying that without unity, Pashtun leadership risks being sidelined by powerful external forces. He called on Pashtun political parties like Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PMAP), JUI, ANP, PTM, and others to hold an all-parties conference to develop a comprehensive strategy for addressing the socio-political issues faced by the Pashtun people.

In addition, Kakar condemned the ongoing crackdown on Pashtun leaders, particularly Ali Wazir, who remains unjustly imprisoned under false charges. He called on the People’s Party government to take immediate steps for the release of Ali Wazir and end the illegal detention.

Kakar concluded by urging party members and supporters to work tirelessly to expand and strengthen the party, stressing that the Pashtunkhwa National Awami Party remains committed to representing Pashtun political rights and working towards a united Pashtun cause.