Swat, in Pakistan, sees 'Peace march'

Even as the NATO powers as well as a major section of the countries throughout the world expressed concerns over the alleged 'buying of peace' by Pakistan government in Swat valley, thousands of people carried out procession to uphold the peace.

Swat, in Pakistan, is in the headlines once again. This time, though, the reason is different. According to reports hundreds and thousands of people have come out in the streets of Swat to uphold the peace in the region through the disarmament of Taliban. The march was led by a Muslim religious leader who reportedly vowed to convince the Taliban for surrendering the arms and following peaceful means to solve issues. The religious leader, Maulana Sufi Mohammad, negotiated a 10-day truce between Taliban forces and government soldiers. The truce has come in exchange of implementation of Sharia or Islamic law in Swat. On Wednesday the procession led by Maulana passed through the Mingora one of the prominent towns of the region prior meeting Taliban leaders. The Maulana, as the reports says, served six years in prison for leading thousands from Pakistan across the border into Afghanistan. The purpose for such measure was ostensibly to fight the US-backed foreign forces in Afghanistan. However, the Maulana in his present role of mediator, reportedly intends persuading the Taliban leaders for laying down their arms to secure long-term goals. He reportedly requested the participants of procession to remain peaceful. He further stated that an agreement had already been reached with the provincial government. As a result, he asserted that the Islamic system of justice would soon be enforced in Swat.