BY: SALAHUDDIN SALARZAI
PESHAWAR :A delegation of tribal elders from Bajaur, led by Sheikh Jhanzada of the Awami National Party (ANP), met with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa KP Governor Faisal Karim Kundi at the Governor House to discuss key regional issues.
The jirga demanded the immediate reopening of the historic Nawa Pass trade route to boost commerce and ease travel between Pakistan and Afghanistan. They emphasized that opening the route would improve cross-border relations and support peace efforts.
The elders also called for the full implementation of FATA reforms, development projects in Bajaur, and resolution of the administrative boundary dispute between Bajaur and Momand. Other demands included:
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Restoration of blocked identity cards after tribal verification
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Revival of mobile and internet services in Bajaur
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Legal recognition of the jirga system as part of the judicial process
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Activation of mineral resources through local tribal councils
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Elevation of Charmang to a separate tehsil and restoration of Chamarkand’s historical tehsil status
Additionally, the delegation urged Pakistan and Afghanistan to resolve disputes through diplomatic talks rather than conflict.
The meeting concluded with prayers for the victims of the recent Bajaur bomb blast. Prominent attendees included tribal leaders, religious scholars, and local representatives.
Governor Kundi assured the jirga that their concerns would be forwarded to the federal government for action.
