ANP Leaders Pay Tribute to Shahrag Martyrs, Call for Political Awareness and Rights Over Resources
HERNAI — Awami National Party (ANP) Provincial President Asghar Khan Achakzai has paid rich tribute to the martyrs of Shahrag, saying they bravely resisted terrorists and sacrificed their lives for the honor and dignity of their homeland.
Speaking at a condolence reference and Fateha Khawani in Shahrag, he said the martyrs’ sacrifices would always be remembered in golden words of history, and future generations would continue to draw inspiration from their courage, bravery, and patriotism.
He said that understanding the factors behind the Shahrag tragedy requires greater public and political awareness. The event was attended by senior ANP leaders including provincial general secretary Mabit Kaka, central secretary Rashid Nasser, provincial vice president Jamal-ud-Din Ratia, provincial spokesperson Wali Dad Miani, and several other party and district officials.
Achakzai noted that District Harnai, particularly Shahrag, and the broader Pashtunkhwa region have long been facing insecurity and hardship despite being rich in natural resources such as coal, freshwater springs, and agricultural potential. He regretted that instead of bringing prosperity, these resources have become a source of problems and life-threatening challenges for the local population.
He added that history shows that brave sons of the soil have always defended their land, dignity, and national honor by offering great sacrifices. The martyrs of Shahrag, he said, continue this proud tradition by standing firm against terrorism.
The ANP leader further alleged that powerful interests are focused on the natural resources of Pashtun and Baloch regions, which contributes to instability and unrest. He stressed the need for public awareness, political consciousness, and democratic struggle to protect local rights and resources.
He urged the people to organize peaceful political resistance for their rights and development so that control over local resources could be ensured for indigenous communities and lasting peace could be established.
Later, the ANP delegation offered prayers for the elevation of the martyrs’ ranks. The party leaders also visited the grave of ANP martyr Khaliq Dad Baber, paying tribute and pledging to continue their mission.
Separately, Achakzai and other party leaders visited senior ANP figure Mir Hazar Khan Baber, who is currently ill, and prayed for his swift recovery after spending time with him.
