SWABI: The local leaders of PML-N and Qaumi Watan Party (QWP) have expressed readiness to contest the coming local government elections in Swabi district from a single platform and discussion to finalise arrangements in this regard are in final stages.

Insiders and activists from the two sides revealed to Dawn on Wednesday that the two parties were in touch with each other on the issue of forging a united front for the elections.

They said that it had become need of the time as other ruling and opposition parties have also formed their respective alliances.

When contacted, QWP leader Mohammad Jamil said that they were inching towards an alliance with Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz. However, he said that ‘baradri’ factor would play a major role in the forthcoming LG election like the previous ones.

Answering a question, he said that the tripartite alliance of ANP, JUI-F and PTI was not natural.

Among others, the Awami Jamhoori Ittehad Pakistan also wants to dominate the district politics.

PML-N district president Iftikhar Ahmad Khan said: “An alliance with QWP is possible and we are also interested to contest election from a strong position. Let’s hope for the best and have a natural alliance.”

In reply to a question, he said that the party command had allowed them for forging electoral alliance with any political party or local group.

TOBACCO CROP: Leaders of Kashtkaran Coordination Council (KCC) and Kisan Board said on Wednesday that the recent rains had harmed the tobacco crop in Swabi district.

KCC general secretary Liaquat Yousufzai told a meeting here that the farmers could be imparted tips on how to protect the crop from weather-related diseases.

The participants said that both Virginia and white patta varieties of tobacco, grown in the district, were warm weather crops and continuous rains could cause further damage to them.

“We have planned to meet the tobacco farmers and educate them on the possible steps for protection of their crop,” he said. Mr Khalid, president of Kisan Board, was also present on the occasion.