Army Public School attack: Parents still yearn for justice, accountability

Imran to announce university named after APS martyrs, says Asad Qaiser

PESHAWAR: Parents of martyred students from Army Public School (APS) in the city shared their grievances as a year comes to a close after the horrors of the December 16 massacre. They complained of the lack of implementation of the National Action Plan (NAP), established to crack down against terrorism.

Families and loved ones of APS victims gathered at Nishtar Hall in the city on Monday and recalled promises made by federal and provincial governments after the tragic incident. K-P Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser, Special Assistant to Chief Minister Mushtaq Ghani and other public representatives were also present.

Appeal for action

Shuhada Forum President Abid Raza Bangash said the establishment of NAP was galvanised by the APS attack.  However, no punishments have been announced for the terrorists behind the attack.

Shuhada Forum General Secretary Ajun Khan said, “The provincial government passes on the responsibility to the federal government, while the federal government hands it back to K-P.” He added government officials should stop playing politics and thoroughly investigate the incident that claimed so many children’s lives.

“This attack [APS] united all nations to stand against terrorism. With NAP, we have arrested many Afghan nationals residing without proper documentation,” stated Ghani

Qaiser said Imran will announce free education for all students wounded in the brutal massacre.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 17^th, 2015.