PESHAWAR, June 6: Governor Ali Mohammad Jan Orakzai has said that in line with tribal traditions the proposed grand jirga would be fully empowered to take decisions. He was talking to a jirga of North Waziristan, comprising tribal elders, ulema, representative of students, journalists and other segments of the society here on Tuesday.

The governor announced that the grand jirga would be constituted soon in a way to give representation to each and every segment of the society, which would be acceptable to all.

He said that peace would have to be maintained when the jirga started deliberations, adding the peace process should be initiated right now to create a conducive atmosphere for consultation.

Mr Orakzai called upon the tribesmen to join hands with the government and strive collectively to bring peace and normalcy to Waziristan. “We have to put out the fire that has engulfed the agency,” he added.

He also resolved that the political system would be strengthened to revive its traditional role and status so as to make it effective.

He said his efforts for peace must have the support and backing of tribesmen.