Aimal pays tribute to Bashir Bilour on 12th death anniversary

PESHAWAR: Awami National Party (ANP) President Aimal Wali Khan on Saturday paid tribute to the late party leader and former provincial senior minister Bashir Ahmed Bilour on his 12th death anniversary.

In a statement, he said Bashir Bilour was a symbol of courage and service for the Pakhtuns. He highlighted Bilour’s struggle against terrorism, which, he said, was a source of inspiration for everyone.

“Bashir Ahmed Bilour proved through his actions that followers of Bacha Khan will never bow to fear or terror. His sacrifices for peace on Pakhtun soil will be remembered in history forever. The people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa deeply feel his absence, especially in these challenging times,” the ANP leader remarked.

He stressed the need to honour the sacrifices of martyrs by turning the dream of peace into reality. He expressed concern over the current state of insecurity in the province, where people felt unsafe and remained under constant threat from terrorists.

“The federal and provincial governments have failed to eliminate terrorism. Pakhtuns’ blood continues to be spilled, while terrorists and their facilitators roam free. The rulers are preoccupied with political power struggles, and neither public safety nor peace is their priority,” Aimal Wali said.

Condemning the government’s lack of seriousness in combating terrorism, he said it only added insult to injury. He reiterated the ANP’s resolve saying: “The Awami National Party will never forget the sacrifices of the martyrs of our national movement. On this anniversary of Shaheed-e-Amn Bashir Bilour, we pledge to continue our struggle against terrorism.”