Thousands of residents of Swat gathered under the banner of Swat Aman Pasoon (Peace March) at Matta Chowk on Friday, declaring the valley will never again be surrendered to terrorists.
The Swat Qaumi Jirga gave the provincial government and police one month to eliminate militants from Swat and Dir, warning that otherwise people themselves would rise to defend their land.
Yesterday, thousands of people in Swat gathered for the Aman Pasoon demonstrating unity beyond political affiliations. The protest declared firmly that no one will be allowed to disturb peace in the region. The speakers urged govt to take effective steps to preserve peace in Swat pic.twitter.com/bT81XBgJnf
— Jawad Yousafzai (@JawadYousufxai) September 20, 2025
The gathering, described as one of the largest in Swat’s history, saw not only men but also women and children filling adjoining streets and rooftops to hear speeches against extremism.
Referendum Against Terrorism
- Local elders, elected representatives, and political leaders including PTI lawmakers and ministers addressed the rally.
- They warned that the people of Swat knew “who brought terrorists to the mountains” and would no longer allow their homeland to be destabilised.
- Jirga leaders called the massive turnout a “referendum against terrorism,” showing that Swatis reject violence and demand lasting peace.
Call for State Responsibility
- Speakers reminded the government that under the Constitution it is duty-bound to protect every citizen.
- They pointed out that Swat has more than 7,000 policemen with modern weapons but lacking authority to act decisively.
- Participants stressed that security forces and the state must ensure militants are rooted out from the region.
One-Month Ultimatum
- The Aman Pasoon warned that if no concrete operation is launched within a month, residents would expand protests not just against terrorism but also against government inaction.
- Leaders made it clear: either the government acts, or the people will defend their valley themselves.
Historic Echo of Resistance
- Peace activists noted that the 2025 gathering surpassed the 2022 Swat Olasi Pasoon rally against the return of terrorists.
- Today’s march, even larger, shows how the people of Swat stand united to safeguard their future.
The message from Matta Chowk is unambiguous: Swat belongs to peace, not terror.
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