PESHAWAR: Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf chairman Imran Khan on Monday said the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government completely supported the federal government centre over the resolution of the problems facing Fata displaced people as well as their early yet dignified repatriation.

“Despite political difference with the federal government, we fully trust the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa governor that he will resolve the problems of the displaced population in collaboration with the PTI’s provincial government,” Imran told reporters after attending a tribal jirga at the Governor’s House here.

On the occasion, Governor Mehtab Ahmad Khan, Chief Minister Pervez Khattak, Speaker of the provincial assembly Asad Qaisar, PTI central leader Naeemul Haq and provincial chief secretary Amjad Ali Khan were also present.

Imran praised the governor and said he was hopeful that he would look into the hardships of the people, who had given immense sacrifices for the people of the entire country.

Governor forms panel to ensure dignified repatriation of displaced Fata tribesmen

He suggested the formation of a committee comprising representatives of federal and provincial governments and Fata to undertake coordinated efforts for their early return and other problems they were facing.

The governor immediately accepted the proposal and announced the formation of a committee under KP chief secretary where elders from Fata would be represented.

The PTI chief said the governor and chief minister should also make efforts to help the Fata’s displaced population in other province.

He paid tribute to the Fata residents and said they had rendered huge sacrifices for the country.

“We will not leave the tribal people alone in difficult times and will keep helping them till they return to their homes,” he said.

Imran said the nation was united against terrorism and wanted an end to violence for development and progress not only in Fata but in other parts of the country as well.

“The PTI will continue its campaign for the grant of basic rights to the people of tribal areas. It is high time that we bring them into mainstream politics,” he said.

The PTI chairman said the displaced population required assistance in areas of health, education and clean drinking water and that it was the responsibility of all people to extend support to the tribesmen, who left their homes for peace in the country.

He asked the provincial and federal governments to coordinate their efforts to ensure that the displaced people are protected from diseases and get access to education.

He also called for the establishment of schools and provision of health and sanitation facilities to the displaced persons.

A handout issued here said Imran Khan was also briefed about security scenario in tribal areas and was informed about the army campaign against militants there.

He said he was also in contact with the PTI’s Fata-based leaders to know about their hardships and resolve them.

Both Imran and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa governor Mehtab Ahmad Khan assured members of the tribal jirga that the government stood by them and would make every move to establish peace in their native areas and send them back as early as possible.

Published in Dawn, February 24th, 2015

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