Who was Maulana Khan Zeb?
Khan Zeb was affiliated with the Awami National Party (ANP), a testament to his family’s long-standing political ties.
Maulana Khan Zeb, a known scholar, wore many hats, including that of a politician and peace activist. He was recently martyred while partaking in the Aman Pasoon (Peace Protest) campaign located in Bajaur. His police security officer, Sherzada Sepah, was also martyred in the attack alongside one of his colleagues. The attack occurred at Shandai Mor within Khar Tehsil. Dr. Tariq, Shahswar, and Usman also acquired severe injuries.
A Scholar Rooted in Faith and Learning
Maulana Khan Zeb was born in Nogai Tehsil of Bajaur and belonged to Salarzai-Sheikhan, a branch of the Tadkala-si clan. His family was historically rooted in the regions Charmeng and Nogai. After attending the Government High School Nogai, he went on to spend a decade studying Islamic Studies under Dars Nizami. During this time, he was fortunate enough to be a disciple of Shaykh al-Hadith Maulana Hasan Jan, which helped shape his intellect and spirituality.
Khanzeb had a deep appreciation for preserving Pashtun history. He authored a book in Pashto discussing the cultural and historical aspects of Bajaur which modernized traditional views among the youth. Supported education, peace, and social justice, he published articles in daily, Shahbaz, Tribal News Network, and Pakhtoon Magazine.
A Secular Politician in a Divided Landscape
Despite being a scholar by education, Khanzeb had ties with the Awami National Party (ANP) which indicates the political heritage of his family. His elder brother, Sheikh Jahanzada, was an influential figure in the ANP serving as a its central leader and candidate for the National Assembly. In the 2023 general elections, Khanzeb ran on the ANP ticket from NA-8 (Bajur) and received 12,069 votes. This is indicative of the public’s approval irrespective of the political turbulence in the region.
Defying Militants for Peace and Justice
Khan Zeb’s courage was an example. He took a stand for the Pakhtun culture and received criticism as he chose faith over fear. He defiantly stated “I knew about the consequences, but Pakhtunwali demanded I be resolute.” Maulana Khan Zeb’s life was a peculiar mix of scholarship, politics, and activism. He embraced his role as a historian who safeguarded Pashto history and served as a cleric who preached against intolerance and as a politician who did not shy away from extremism.
Also read: ANP leader Maulana Khanzeb fatally shot by terrorists in Bajaur
