Ajmal Khan Khattak was more than a politician; he was a torchbearer of Pashtun identity, a fierce advocate for democratic values, and one of the most celebrated voices in Pashto literature. His life’s journey – from anti-colonial activist to literary icon and seasoned parliamentarian – is a compelling tale of resilience, intellectual vigor, and undying love for his people.
Early Life and Political Awakening
Born on 15 September 1925 in Akora Khattak, a village nestled in present-day Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Ajmal Khattak was drawn to political activism at a young age. Deeply inspired by Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan (Bacha Khan), he joined the Khudai Khidmatgar movement during his teenage years and participated actively in the Quit India Movement at the age of 17. His early opposition to British rule led to his expulsion from school, marking the beginning of a lifelong commitment to social justice and political freedom.
Khattak later completed a master’s degree in Persian from Peshawar University, and at Islamia College, Peshawar, he emerged as a pioneer in modern Pashto literature by linking traditional poetry with European literary influences.
Role in National Politics
Following the creation of Pakistan, Ajmal Khattak aligned with progressive politics, joining the National Awami Party (NAP) – a platform for socialist and nationalist voices. His political career gained momentum in the 1960s when he was elected Secretary General of NAP in 1969.
However, his unwavering commitment to provincial autonomy and minority rights made him a target. After the 1973 crackdown on NAP by Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, Khattak went into exile in Afghanistan, where he spent 16 years advocating for the Pakhtunistan movement and nurturing political thought in exile.
Exile and Literary Contributions
During his years in Kabul, Khattak was closely associated with notable Afghan leaders such as Nur Muhammad Taraki and Babrak Karmal, and maintained strong ties with Bacha Khan. Despite being away from his homeland, Khattak remained a prolific writer. A committed Marxist-Leninist, he authored 13 books in Pashto and Urdu, including:
- Da Ghirat Chagha
- Pakistan Main Qaumi Jamhoori Tehrikin
- Pukhtana Shora
- Da Wakht Chagha
- Jalawatan Ki Shairee
His poetry resonated with themes of resistance, exile, identity, and social justice, securing him the title of “Baba-e-Nazam” in 2006 from the literary society Torlandi Pukhto Adabi Tolana.
Return to Pakistan and Political Leadership
In 1989, Ajmal Khattak returned to Pakistan, shortly after the Awami National Party (ANP) – NAP’s successor – allied with Nawaz Sharif’s IJI. He was elected to the National Assembly in 1990, defeating Pervez Khattak, and later succeeded Khan Abdul Wali Khan as President of the ANP.
As president, he navigated complex political waters, forging alliances with former adversaries like the Pakistan Muslim League, joining nationalist platforms such as PONM, and eventually aligning with the Grand Democratic Alliance. His efforts to rename NWFP as Pakhtunkhwa highlighted his commitment to Pashtun identity within a federated Pakistan.
However, internal party rifts led to his ousting in 2000 amid a feud with Nasim Wali Khan. He briefly formed a splinter group, National Awami Party of Pakistan, but after poor results in the 2002 elections, he rejoined ANP and retired from active politics in 2003.
Legacy and Final Years
Ajmal Khattak’s final years were spent in quiet reflection at his home in Akora Khattak. Though he had withdrawn from politics, his voice remained influential. He declined the state award Sitara-i-Imtiaz in 2006, reinforcing his principled stance on political integrity. In 2007, he received the Kamal-e-Funn Award for his literary achievements.
He passed away on 7 February 2010 at the age of 85. A day after his burial, his grave became a target of political violence, as militants destroyed his shrine – a tragic symbol of the ideological battles that continue to plague the region.
Key Contributions and Impact
🕊️ Political Activism:
- Vocal advocate for Pashtun rights and provincial autonomy
- Fought colonialism as part of Khudai Khidmatgar and later opposed military regimes in Pakistan
📚 Literary Brilliance:
- Authored influential works in Pashto and Urdu
- Revitalized Pashto poetry by blending traditional themes with progressive ideology
🌍 Ideological Vision:
- Lifelong Marxist-Leninist who believed in social justice, secularism, and federalism
- Opposed both religious extremism and autocratic rule
Conclusion
Ajmal Khattak’s legacy endures as that of a fearless political leader, a visionary poet, and a true patriot. His life was a testament to the power of words and the strength of convictions in the face of adversity. For students of South Asian politics, literature, and history, Khattak remains a towering figure whose life’s work continues to inspire movements for peace, democracy, and cultural revival across the region.