Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has issued a fervent appeal for the peaceful conclusion of ongoing protests in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), warning that the unrest is damaging the Kashmiri cause and Pakistan’s international standing at a critical moment.
Unrest Undermines Kashmir Cause, Says Bilawal
Speaking ahead of the imminent signing of the Islamabad accord, Bilawal described the situation as a historic moment for the nation. He cautioned that the turmoil in AJK is creating unnecessary opportunities for hostile actors and what he termed the “India-Israel nexus” to exploit the situation for their own purposes.
“The ongoing unrest in Azad Jammu and Kashmir is damaging both the Kashmiri cause and Pakistan’s reputation,” Bilawal stated. “It is also creating an unnecessary opportunity for hostile actors and the IndiaIsrael nexus to exploit the situation for their own purposes.”
Call for Lawful Conduct and Dialogue
The PPP chairman appealed directly to protesters to bring their demonstrations to a peaceful conclusion. He urged individuals who have taken the law into their own hands to surrender to local authorities and allow due process to take its course.
“All political grievances and disagreements must be resolved through democratic, constitutional, and peaceful means,” Bilawal emphasized. “Parliament and the political process—not the streets—are the appropriate forums for addressing and settling such issues.”
Proposed Political Solutions and Reconciliation
Bilawal reiterated the PPP’s call for the Election Commission to withdraw its premature election schedule for AJK. He reaffirmed his party’s commitment to pursuing a political solution, including the establishment of a Truth and Reconciliation Commission to outstanding grievances.
“We remain committed to pursuing a political solution and would seek to establish a Truth and Reconciliation Commission to address outstanding grievances, move the process forward, and bring these matters to a just and lasting conclusion,” he said. “The of Kashmir should not have to endure repeated cycles of protest, confrontation, and uncertainty.”
Review of Notifications if Stakeholders Agree
The PPP Chairman also suggested that if all stakeholders, including the federal government, are in agreement, the AJK government could review notifications issued in relation to protesting parties. He stressed that while there can be no compromise on upholding the rule of law and holding accountable those engaged in unlawful acts, party is equally committed to ensuring that innocent individuals are not made to suffer for the actions of others.
