PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi on Thursday said that a request had been sent to the prime minister for the formation of a special committee to “address the issues and grievances” of the merged tribal districts (previously Fata).

“This initiative aims to alleviate the sentiments of discontent that have emerged following the integration of these areas into the provincial framework,” the governor told a delegation of the Mamozai National Alliance of Orakzai tribal district during a meeting here at the Governor’s House.

The visitors, led by alliance president Mohammad Zaman and general secretary Mohammad Hanif, highlighted the plight of temporary displaced persons, compensation for the destruction caused by military operations, and other pressing issues.

Former federal minister Sajid Hussain Tori was also present in the meeting.

Kurram delegation discusses IDPs, compensation issues with governor

The governor said that the solution to the province’s unrest and challenges lied in the hands of the residents.

“Only we, the residents of this region, can correct our situation. No one else will resolve our issues. When peace is restored, tourism will flourish, businesses will grow, and ours will become the most prosperous province in the country,” he said.

Mr Kundi also expressed concerns regarding the funding for the merged districts after the tribal region’s merger with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

He said that instead of being spent on the merged districts, those funds were diverted to the settled districts of the province, denying tribal areas their rightful share in resources.

“I request the prime minister to form a committee to ensure that the funds meant for the merged districts are utilised in those areas only,” he said.

The governor assured the delegation that he would personally engage with authorities to address issues related to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority and other concerns, and work towards their resolution.

Meanwhile, the governor, in a meeting with secretary of Anjuman-i-Hussainia Jalal Hussain Bangash, emphasised the importance of “sincere efforts to ease tensions and ensure lasting peace in Kurram tribal district.”

“Active participation of all stakeholders is essential to achieve this goal,” Mr Kundi said.

The governor expressed concern about the deteriorating security situation in Kurram and said that unrest in the area was affecting the entire province.

He underscored the urgent need for the formation of a “joint, empowered” jirga to address the issue and improve the law and order situation in the district.

“A jirga with complete authority is crucial to resolve the problems in Kurram district. All stakeholders must come together and agree on a course of action,” he said.

The governor announced that a multiparty jirga would be formed on an urgent basis to find a sustainable solution to unrest in the district.

He said he was committed to bringing all relevant parties together to create a clear plan to restore peace and stability in Kurram.

Published in Dawn, November 15th, 2024