PESHAWAR: Two separate jirgas comprising parliamentarians, tribal elders and notables from Bajaur and Kurram districts were held at the Chief Minister’s House in Peshawar under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Afridi.
The jirgas discussed in detail the overall law and order situation, improvement in Pakistan-Afghanistan relations, public issues, sectarian harmony and development strategy. Participants of the jirgas expressed full confidence in Chief Minister Afridi and assured complete cooperation with the provincial government.
On the occasion, the participants also presented various proposals for the establishment of lasting peace in the merged districts, including Bajaur and Kurram.
Addressing the jirgas, Chief Minister Afridi announced an increase in financial assistance for the reconstruction of partially damaged houses during the recent operation in Bajaur from Rs160,000 to Rs500,000. He said tribal elders, the public, police, and security forces have made unparalleled sacrifices for peace in the province, and as a result of these sacrifices, complete peace had been established in the country by 2018. However, he added that deliberate attempts are now being made to destabilize the situation.
The Chief Minister made it clear that decisions taken behind closed doors have always worsened circumstances, whereas sustainable peace can only be achieved through collective wisdom by taking tribal elders and the provincial government into confidence. He categorically said that the provincial government would not become part of any failed policy.
Afridi appreciated the role of the people and tribal elders of Bajaur, stating that their services for the establishment of peace and order are commendable. Referring to the promises made at the time of the FATA merger, the Chief Minister stated that an annual allocation of one hundred billion rupees had been committed, but over the past seven years only Rs168 billion have been released, while Rs532 billion remain outstanding against the federal government.
He issued directives to increase the upper age limit for police recruitment in the merged districts, expedite work on the Bajaur Shuhada package, and provide security to tribal elders who have played a key role in peace and national development. He also stated that under the Roshan Qabail Package, improvements in existing schools and hospitals in the merged districts would be ensured. Reaffirming his commitment, the Chief Minister said that the provincial government would continue all possible measures for sustainable peace, development, and public welfare in the merged districts.
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