One of the critiques of PTM that I've come across is that the PTM is exclusively Pakhtun.
This is a problematic categorization for many reasons but before getting into that: I want to share my personal experience & interaction with PTM, as someone who is not Pakhtun.
When I met Manzoor Pashteen for the first time, I was in awe of his commitment to his cause. There are very few people in Pakistan who can tell you, at the drop of a hat, in great detail each case of enforced disappearance that has occurred. Manzoor knew every case by heart.
He explained so many cases in such great detail and with such immense compassion that anyone listening would have been moved. As I was in that moment.
I have attended PTM protests in Islamabad. Once, we were at the Press Club and I was sitting with BG, MD, AW & others.
They were speaking in Pashto (of course the language they feel most comfortable speaking in) but kept making an effort to switch to Urdu so as to ensure I didnt feel excluded and that I understood what was going on.They even asked me if I wanted to speak on the unlawful detention
Of Alamzaib (which I did). Around them, I have never felt like I dont belong to the movement or the cause it represents because the cause aligns with my principles. Their struggle resonates with so many who are not Pakhtun. And there are many like me who feel this way.
Why else is this categorization problematic? Just because the majority of followers of the movement are Pakhtun does not mean the issues they represent concern solely those who are Pakhtun. They have taken positions on enforced disappearances, on the army act, etc.
Because of PTM, it became possible to openly discuss and criticize the ruthless disregard of the State for its citizens. They have been able to pave the way for honest discourse in Pakistan, something other political parties/movements have been unable to do. And they've done it
At great personal cost.
If you have been unable to understand what they have done for citizens of this country, I would really urge you to meet their leaders & workers and to speak to them and understand where they are coming from and what they stand for.
PTM stands for a more inclusive Pak, the exact opposite of the criticism leveled ag/ them.
They have been fighting for a Pakistan that we can all live in safely. Where we can all be included, respected and protected equally.
#ReleaseManzoorPashteen
#ReleaseIslamabadProtestors
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