AS ill-luck would have it, Gen (r) Pervez Musharraf himself could not contest election from Chitral. The selection of Chitralis amongst myriad ethnicities creates certain ideas in the mind of others.

The factor may be the culture, affection, passion or the most worthy thing which has not been witnessed for decades in Pakistan -- the peace in Chitral.

Despite the aforesaid attributes we have many issues which need to be solved. The major issue relates to the Lowari Pass, five months in a year the valley had been cut off from the outside world due to heavy snowfall in the Lowari mountains. The only alternative route was the Afghan route, with its accompanying fear of death, robbery, etc. Musharraf remembered us at the perilous time and we supported him on his call.

It was kind of him for remembering us at the time of election and the people of Chitral showed the whole nation by supporting their leader, showing him a sense of sincerity and affection.

M.N. MIRZA (CHITRALI) Islamabad