THE LIFE AND STRUGGLES OF SHAKIR BUNERI

Abstract

This paper explores the political life and struggle of Shakir Buneri (1940–2024) from Bajkata village, Buner district. Son of the esteemed scholar Muhammad Yousaf, Buneri opposed the autocratic rule of Wali Swat, Mia Gul Jahan Zeb, and played a significant role in the merger of Swat State. Known as the first Buneri journalist, he contributed to various newspapers and journals. The study examines Buneri’s political activism during the Wali Swat era (1960–2003), including his exile in 1963 and subsequent alliances with Pakistani political leaders. His enduring political efforts highlight his resistance against autocracy and commitment to democratic reforms until his death in 2024.