During the Rehmat-ul-Alameen Conference in Peshawar on Tuesday, Hafiz Mohibullah Shakir, the Afghan Consul General in Peshawar, sparked outrage by remaining seated during Pakistan’s national anthem, violating diplomatic protocols and displaying what experts labelled as “utter disregard” for the host nation.
The conference was hosted by the Chief Minister of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Ali Amin Gandapur. Afghan consular officials attended. Shakir’s decision to stay seated during the anthem was widely criticized as a breach of diplomatic etiquette.
“By not standing for the national anthem, the Afghan Consul General has blatantly disrespected Pakistan and its citizens. This incident is extraordinary and contrary to the essence of diplomatic behaviour,” commented a political analyst, stressing that such actions are unacceptable in any civilized society.
Experts have urged that Shakir be declared persona non grata and expelled. They also criticized the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government for inviting someone who showed no respect for Pakistan’s dignity or international norms.
“Immediate action from the foreign ministry, including a formal démarche, is necessary to address this breach of diplomatic norms,” suggested an expert.
This incident occurred amid tense relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan, especially following the Taliban’s return to power in August 2021. Despite initial hopes for improved relations, tensions have escalated.
Pakistan has accused Afghanistan of sheltering the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which has intensified terrorist attacks within Pakistan. Despite Islamabad’s pleas for action against the TTP, the Kabul administration has hesitated.
“The Afghan Taliban have called on Pakistan to seek a political solution to the TTP issue. Pakistan engaged in talks on their request, which allowed the TTP to regroup,” noted a security expert. “Since November 2022, after a leadership change in Pakistan’s military, there have been no further negotiations with these terrorist groups.”
This policy has led to increased attacks in Pakistan, further straining relations.
Consul General Shakir’s actions could exacerbate the fragile relationship. Many are calling for Pakistan’s foreign ministry to respond formally, suggesting that such diplomatic slights cannot be overlooked.
“Pakistan must take decisive diplomatic steps now. This behaviour undermines the fundamental courtesies expected at official events between nations,” a government official stated.
As tensions continue, incidents like these may deepen the existing rift between the two nations.
