SWABI: Speakers at a jirga here on Tuesday stressed the need for active role of elders in resolution of local disputes in the Gadoon Amazai mountainous belt.

They said keeping in view the prevailing scenario it was vital to keep the jirga system activated and motivate the elders to play their due role in settling the disputes, which often resulted into loss of precious lives.

The participants noted that the jirga-led dispute resolution was long lasting, which satisfied both the parties as against the court verdicts.

They said the jirga system was still strong in Gadoon area and with the formation of a grand jirga at the meeting the mechanism would be further strengthen to provide the people with speedy justice.

Speaking on the occasion, Ali Khan Jadoon, who was elected chairman of the grand jirga, said the elders would cooperate with the dispute resolution council members in peaceful settlement of disputes.

He said the grand jirga would work for the rights of people of Gadoon belt who remained victims of official neglect.

Aurang Sher, another participant, said as compared to men women of Gadoon region had badly suffered due to lack of health facilities.

POLL APPLICATIONS: Awami National Party on Tuesday started receiving applications for issuance of tickets for the 2018 general elections for the two National Assembly and six provincial assembly seats in the district.

Party’s district president Ameer Rehman is receiving the applications and the process will continue till Thursday.

Mohammad Irshad Khan of Salim Khan village submitted application for NA-12, Swabi, while Dr Tasleem Bibi applied for women reserve seat.

Speaking to reporters, Mr Rehman said the ANP had had won the local government election in Swabi, and would contest the general election with a new zeal.

He said those who were involved in opportunist politics had been exposed.

Published in Dawn, August 2nd, 2017