KOHAT: A tough contest is expected between the candidates of Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam-Fazl and Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf in the by-elections on NA-33, Hangu district, which have been rescheduled for April 17, 2022.

The seat had fallen vacant due to the death of the PTI MNA Khayal Zaman in February.

The candidates of the three main political parties of JUI-F, PTI and Awami National Party are Akhunzada Mufti Obaidullah, Dr Nadeem Khayal and Syed Umar, respectively. Dr Nadeem is the son of late MNA Khayal Zaman.

The district administration has made strict security arrangements for the elections.

The number of total voters in both Hangu and Thall tehsils was 314,077. Of the total 210 polling stations, 64 are for men, 55 for women and 91 combined.

According to the election commission, several polling stations have been declared sensitive in the light of the prevailing law and order situation. However, elaborate security arrangements have been made to ensure that the elections are held in a peaceful atmosphere.

MOBILE APP LAUNCHED: In view of the problems being faced by people due to traffic jams, the district administration here on Thursday launched a mobile app ‘Marastyal’ (to help) for redressal of the complaints of pedestrians and motorists on an emergency basis.

Deputy commissioner Roshan Mehsud said in a statement that the people could file a complaint from any area about encroachments and illegal parking in bazaars and on roads.

The district administration will take swift action against shop owners and motorists to clear the route, he said.

Published in Dawn, April 15th, 2022