PESHAWAR, Feb 1: The Pukhtunkhwa Qaumi Party (PQP) has merged into the Awami National Party, according to PQP President Afzal Khan on Wednesday. He said in a press statement that restoration of democracy and solidarity among the Pukhtun (political) groups was the main aim of his party and the points had been included in the ANP manifesto after the merger.

He said that a peaceful democratic struggle would be the binding force to unite the Pukhtun groups on one platform.

An official announcement would be formally made on Feb 6 in a press conference which would be attended by ANP chief Asfandyar Wali, said Mr Khan. He said that he had consulted the ANP leaders, including its General-Secretary Mian Iftikhar Hussain and NWFP President Bashir Bilour on inclusion of the PQP points in the ANP charter.

The formal announcement has reportedly been delayed due to the death of ANP Rahbar Wali Khan.