KHAR: PML-N MNA from Bajaur Agency Shahabuddin Khan on Wednesday said the Fata reforms approved by the federal cabinet would be implemented soon.

He told political activists, youths and elders at his house in Pashat Salarzai area here that the process to do away with the colonial governance system in tribal areas had entered final stage and that the local residents would soon hear good news about the implementation of Fata reforms.

The lawmaker said reforms of the current governance system would ensure durable peace, stability and speedy socioeconomic development in Fata.

He said the enforcement of the country’s laws in Fata was the best way to address the issues and challenges facing local tribesmen.

Mr Shahabuddin denied the reforms approved by the cabinet would go against the local customs, traditions, culture and jirga system and claimed that the changes to the prevalent governance and judicial system would turn out to be a true game changer in the life of tribesmen.

“If implemented in letter and spirit, the reforms will be welcomed by the people from all walks of life,” he said.

The lawmaker insisted that the reforms package approved by the cabinet didn’t have anything, which went against tribal culture, traditions and customs.

He said some people opposed reforms with the intent to keep tribesmen ‘ignored, backward, and deprived of rights and facilities’.

Mr Shahabuddin asked the people to unanimously support the reforms package for effective implementation.

He said he would actively participate in the possible protest in the National Assembly meant to force the government for the early implementation of reforms.

BOY DROWNS: A boy died after drowning in the floodwater in Bajaur Agency’s Nawagai tehsil on Wednesday.

The incident occurred in Sharif Khan Charmang area, which is 35 kilometers from Khar, the agency headquarters.

The local residents said a woman along with three children drowned in rainwater caused by heavy downpour when they were returning from a nearby field. They added that the woman and two children were rescued but child Ajmeer Khan was found dead.

Published in Dawn, June 29th, 2017