PHOTO: FILE
PESHAWAR: Hundreds of ANP workers gathered in the heart of the city at Gor Ghatri to remember their slain leader Bashir Ahmad Bilour who was assassinated on December 22, 2012. Bilour was renowned as one of the leading voices against militancy and extremism.
Dressed in red shirts and caps while holding party flags and posters bearing Bilour’s picture, workers shouted slogans in favour of the slain leader. They said the brave leader would forever be etched in their hearts and minds. The crowd was calm, peaceful and prayed for the departed soul of Bilour. They vowed never to bow before militants who kill innocent people in the name of religion.
Three years on, Bilour’s war is still on
Many of the participants believed the day should have been observed on a national level to recognise the sacrifices of those slain by terrorists. Meanwhile, there was also strong criticism of government policies and efforts to restore peace.
The party’s central leadership was in attendance, including Haji Adil, Amir Haider Khan Hoti, Afrasiab Khan Khattak, Bashir Matta, Mian Iftikhar Hussain, Sardar Hussain Babak and the brother of the Bashir Bilour, Ghulam Ahmad Bilour.
“Now they say it is our war and there are no good or bad terrorists,” Afrasiab Khattak said. He added ANP was ignored despite the fact that it stated this from the outset. He paid tribute to the late Bilour and said the party members would lay down their lives, but never leave the ground open for terrorists.
ANP General Secretary Mian Iftikhar Hussain said he and Bilour spent over 35 years of their lives together. “They will run out of suicide vests, but never deter us,” Hussain told the packed hall.
Remembrance: In Bilour’s death, Pukhtuns lost a great leader, says Asfandyar
“Not only will the men, but also the women of this country fight side by side to end militancy from the country.” He said “ANP only had 850 martyrs for this land”.
Hussain stressed there was a need to change policies. “There is no good or bad militant.” He added after the APS tragedy, the nation was united and agreed on a 20-point agenda. However, he added it was yet to be implemented.
“Militancy is not only in Waziristan, but also in camps. Why are they not targeting militants in Punjab? Until they are finished, there cannot be peace.” Former K-P chief minister Amir Haider Khan Hoti and Ghulam Ahmad Bilour also spoke on the occasion.
Published in The Express Tribune, December 23rd, 2015.
COMMENTS
Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.
For more information, please see our Comments FAQ