Bilawal Bhutto calls for peaceful political resolution of AJK Issues

MUZAFFARABAD: Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has urged all stakeholders to pursue a political, constitutional, and peaceful resolution to the ongoing issues in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), emphasizing the need for dialogue and democratic processes.

In a statement, Bilawal said that the approaching signing of the Islamabad Agreement marks a historic moment, with international attention currently focused on Pakistan. He warned that the prevailing unrest in AJK is damaging both the Kashmir cause and Pakistan’s reputation on the global stage.

The PPP chairman stated that the situation is providing an unnecessary opportunity for hostile elements and the alleged India-Israel nexus to exploit tensions. He appealed to all protesters to end their demonstrations peacefully and stressed that political grievances and differences should be resolved through democratic, constitutional, and peaceful means.

Bilawal said that Parliament and the political process are the appropriate forums for addressing such issues and reaffirmed his commitment to finding a political solution. He noted that his party had already called on the Election Commission to withdraw the early election schedule.

He further announced efforts to establish a Truth and Reconciliation Commission to address pending grievances and ensure a fair and just resolution of outstanding matters. According to Bilawal, the proposed commission would help bring disputes to a logical and equitable conclusion.

The PPP chairman also urged individuals who have taken the law into their own hands to surrender to local authorities and allow the legal process to proceed. He emphasized that the people of Kashmir should not have to endure prolonged protests, confrontation, and uncertainty.

Bilawal added that if the federal government and all relevant stakeholders reach a consensus, the AJK government could review notifications issued against protesting groups as part of efforts to restore normalcy and promote reconciliation.