GHALANAI, April 18: The tribal elders of different areas in Mohmand Agency have said that they will support independent candidate Waheedullah Khan in the upcoming general elections.

The tribal elders extended support to the independent candidate during a jirga held at the hujra of Malik Fiaz Khan in Khewazai area here on Thursday. A large numbers of tribesmen belonging to Haleemzai, Khewazai, Biazai, Safi, Alingar, Soran Dara and Sagi areas attended the jirga. Addressing the jirga, Nawagai Peace Committee chief Maulana Gul Dad Khan urged the tribesmen to cast their votes in the favour of only those candidates, who rendered sacrifices for restoration of peace in the area.

He said that opportunist leaders had entered politics to deceive voters. He urged tribal elders to ensure success of Haji Sobedar Khan in the coming election.

Speaking on the occasion, Khewazai Peace Committee chief Malik Fiaz Khan thanked the tribal elders of the area for their cooperation. Khewazai tribe decided collectively that it would vote for Waheedullah Khan in the upcoming general elections, he said.

Malik Fiaz said that former local parliamentarians did nothing for the welfare of the area. They just enjoyed perks and privileges in Islamabad, he added.

He said that Waheedullah played a vital role in restoration of peace in the area. He would be in a position to do more for the welfare of the people of the area if he succeeded in the election, he added.

Haleemzai Peace Committee chief Malik Mohammad Ali Haleemzai said on the occasion that on May 11 people would decide the fate of Mohmand Agency so they should vote for the suitable candidate.

Waheedullah Khan also spoke on the occasion and urged Khewazai tribesmen to support him.

Malik Lal Habib, an elder of Khewzai tribe, assured the independent candidate of their full cooperation in the upcoming elections.