PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Information Adviser Barrister Saif has called on the federal government to convene a National Finance Commission (NFC) meeting ahead of the upcoming budget and to immediately transfer KP’s rightful financial share for the merged tribal districts.
He stressed that outstanding payments under net hydel profit must also be cleared before the budget is finalized, enabling KP to allocate resources for the development of the former FATA regions. Saif accused the federal government of unlawfully withholding funds that rightfully belong to the province.
He highlighted that the KP government is preparing a special relief package for the merged areas, but delays at the federal level are obstructing progress.
The KP Chief Minister has already written two formal letters to the Prime Minister on the financial concerns related to the merged districts and net hydel profits. However, no response has been received so far.
Barrister Saif argued that investment in the development of merged districts is crucial to reducing terrorism. He urged the federal government to release the funds without delay, stating that counterterrorism is a national responsibility, not just a provincial one, and requires full cooperation from the center.
He criticized the federal government’s approach, saying KP is being treated like a “stepchild,” and emphasized that such neglect must end to ensure lasting peace, development, and prosperity across the country.
