PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Khan Afridi held comprehensive discussions with delegations of national elders and tribal leaders from Khyber district regarding public issues, security concerns, and the province’s development strategy.
During the meetings, the tribal leaders presented various proposals aimed at achieving sustainable development and prosperity for the region. CM Afridi addressed the delegations and raised several key points concerning the financial and developmental challenges faced by the area.
The Chief Minister highlighted the outstanding National Finance Commission (NFC) dues of 1,375 billion rupees for the merged districts, emphasizing that the federal government had only released 168 billion rupees over the past seven years, despite a prior commitment of 100 billion rupees annually. He expressed frustration over the federal government’s failure to meet its promises, stating that the province would no longer tolerate this inequity.
CM Afridi announced that the provincial government is planning a comprehensive development package of one trillion rupees for the merged districts. This package will include projects for every sector and ensure that no area is left behind in the development process.
The Chief Minister assured the tribal leaders that consultations are ongoing with elected representatives to prepare the Tirah package, a development initiative aimed at benefiting the region. He also confirmed that funds for the Bara Dam would be allocated in the upcoming fiscal year and that work is continuing on the Khyber Industrial Zone project.
Regarding the Jabba Dam in Khyber district, CM Afridi announced that the issue has been resolved. He added that the matter concerning Regi Lalamah would be addressed through consultations with national elders and tribal leaders.
On the contentious forced displacement of the people of Tirah, CM Afridi noted that 4 billion rupees had been allocated for welfare initiatives, although critics have started raising concerns. He compared the situation to the 11 billion rupee luxury jet purchased by the Punjab Chief Minister, highlighting the double standards and the silence surrounding such expenditures.
Afridi criticized those forces that have intentionally kept the tribal regions underdeveloped and mentioned that certain elements are still attempting to deprive the tribes of their rights. He assured the tribal leaders that the provincial government would not be negligent and would continue to address the needs of affected populations.
Regarding compensation for the victims of Tirah, the Chief Minister promised that the commitments made to them would be fulfilled by next week. He emphasized that if the federal government’s commitments were not honored, protesting for their rights would be a legitimate course of action.
Afridi concluded by stating that the provincial government would not tolerate any negligence and would persist in its efforts to ensure the welfare and development of the tribal regions.
Read also: Tribal elders and traders in Landi Kotal lead rally in solidarity with Pakistan Army
