Senate Chairman Yousuf Raza Gilani on Thursday emphasized the urgent need to address the root causes of terrorism, asserting that lasting peace requires more than the absence of conflict—it demands justice and inclusive development.
Speaking to a tribal jirga from the merged districts, Gilani acknowledged the sacrifices made by the people of these areas in the fight against terrorism. He said their contributions were unforgettable and that development in the tribal belt remains a top priority.
Recalling his tenure as prime minister, Gilani said military operations in South Waziristan, Swat, and Malakand were launched in consultation with all stakeholders. These operations displaced 2.5 million people, he noted, but they were successfully rehabilitated within 90 days.
Gilani stressed that Pakistan has borne the brunt of terrorism, especially due to instability in Afghanistan, which triggered a large influx of refugees. He criticized the international community for failing to honor its commitments to support Pakistan in handling the refugee burden.
He also cited the example of Malala Yousafzai, to whom he awarded a peace prize during his premiership — an initiative that was later internationally recognized when she received the Nobel Peace Prize.
The Senate chairman further pointed out that many countries face law and order challenges, but Pakistan’s most urgent issues lie along its borders with Afghanistan and India. He reiterated the government’s responsibility to maintain peace and ensure justice for all, particularly in marginalized areas.
Gilani concluded by assuring the tribal representatives that their voices will not be silenced, and called for genuine efforts to address their legitimate concerns. He also highlighted similar challenges faced by his own region, South Punjab, underscoring the shared struggle against poverty and unemployment.