PESHAWAR: Special Assistant to the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Information and Public Relations Shafi Jan visited the Kohat Press Club on Monday, where he met the newly elected president, cabinet members, senior journalists and congratulated them on their election.
Speaking on the occasion, Shafi Jan said that journalism is a sacred profession and the fourth pillar of the state, adding that the provincial government firmly believes in free and independent journalism. He emphasized that free and responsible journalism is a guarantee for the stability of democracy.
Special Assistant stated that the provincial government welcomes positive and constructive criticism by journalists on its performance. He assured that if the journalist community highlights any shortcomings in public welfare projects, the government will take immediate action.
He further said that the role of journalists in highlighting public issues is of utmost importance. Shafi Jan added that the provincial government is taking serious and practical steps for the welfare of journalists and provision of professional facilities. He said the government is fully aware of the issues faced by journalists and effective measures will be taken under a comprehensive strategy to resolve them. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to further strengthening mutual trust and cooperation between the provincial government and the media.
On the occasion, the President of Kohat Press Club apprised the Special Assistant of the issues faced by the press club, to which Shafi Jan assured that all problems would be resolved on a priority basis.
Meanwhile, Shafi Jan said that the provincial government is ensuring transparency in relief funds for the affected people of Tirah Valley. He informed that so far, Rs 92 crore has been spent on transportation and food distribution during travel for affected families. He added that a complete auditable record of all expenditures has been compiled, including verification by the district administration and local elders, along with recipients’ signatures and copies of their national identity cards.
He further stated that the provincial government has allocated Rs 2.4 billion under the relief compensation package and monthly assistance for the affected families. After NADRA registration and verification, compensation will be disbursed digitally, with relief funds transferred directly into the beneficiaries’ bank accounts.
Shafi Jan said that a strict monitoring mechanism has been implemented to safeguard public resources, funds and reiterated that the provincial government remains committed to the transparent use of public funds.
