A grand Loya Jirga of tribal elders on Saturday agreed to form a smaller representative jirga to negotiate with the federal government and other stakeholders regarding the demands of people in K-P’s merged districts.
Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, who chaired the tribal meeting, later announced that they might march on Islamabad if their proposed talks failed.
The grand Loya Jirga convened at the K-P Chief Minister House due to drone attacks, persistent unrest, and the deteriorating law and order situation in the tribal districts. It was attended by tribal elders, elected representatives, senators, opposition members, religious scholars, and other notable figures.
Participants expressed serious concern over the loss of life and property caused by drone strikes, particularly the deaths of women, children, and the elderly.
In his address, the chief minister expressed regret over the alleged mistreatment of the public at checkpoints in restive areas, stating that such behavior increases frustration among citizens.
Sohail Afridi claimed that the provincial government would take practical steps to establish peace in the tribal districts and adopt an effective strategy to prevent drone attacks.
He also voiced concern over the decision to withdraw laws such as the Action in Aid of Civil Power, the non-availability of lists of detainees, and the failure to establish lasting peace despite past military operations. He said if adequate resources are provided, peace could be restored within a short period.
The jirga also held detailed discussions on the financial and constitutional rights of the tribal districts, including promised funds after the merger of Federally Administered Tribal Areas (Fata) with the K-P and issues related to the province’s share in the NFC award.
Participants expressed their resolve to continue a strong struggle to secure these rights and vowed to ensure that the tribal districts receive their due share of resources and constitutional protections.
The meeting concluded with a renewed resolve to pursue peaceful means for achieving stability and development in the region, while pressing the government to take immediate and effective action on the concerns raised.Latest News, Breaking News & Top News Stories | The Express TribuneOur CorrespondentRead More