Gathering to honour D-Chowk ‘martyrs’ tomorrow: Gandapur

PESHAWAR: KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur has announced to hold a gathering tomorrow (Sunday) at Bagh-e-Naran, Hayatabad in the provincial capital, to honour the “martyrs of the November 26 D-Chowk Islamabad strike.”

Contributions will be presented to the families of those who lost their lives, and prayers will be offered for the injured.

In a video message, Gandapur urged the public to join the event, asserting that the martyrs fought for democracy and “real freedom,” and their sacrifices would not go waste.

He demanded accountability of the federal government over alleged killings during the strike and criticized the media after accusing it of suppressing the truth under pressure. Gandapur described the martyrs as “heroes of democracy” who laid down their lives for the nation’s freedom. “We will continue their mission until we achieve real freedom,” he said. He revealed that 12 martyrs had been identified so far, with over 100 individuals injured by gunfire, and more cases were being documented. The chief minister accused the federal government of targeting protesters and demanded answers for the missing persons after the strike. “We suspect many of the missing were killed. The government must clarify their fate,” he stated.

Gandapur criticized the federal government for its actions during the strike, accusing it of ordering the use of firearms against peaceful protesters. “Who gave the orders to open fire? Why did you shoot at workers demanding their rights?” he asked. The chief minister condemned the media for remaining silent, adding, “The media, under pressure, has failed to highlight this atrocity. But we demand answers from every single individual involved.” He accused the federal government of fostering hatred among provinces for its corrupt interests. “They [rulers] have destroyed the country’s unity for their black money and are repeating the same mistakes. You are creating hate among the provinces for your seats and corruption, but we will not let you succeed,” he said. Gandapur addressed the Pakistan Army, emphasizing its role as a force belonging to the people. “The Army is composed of our own people, and we will not let anyone create hatred between the military and the public,” he said. He condemned politicians attempting to sow discord, asserting, “We are not slaves, nor will we ever be. We will get our rights at any cost, and no one can stop us.”