PESHAWAR: Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Muhammad Sohail Afridi has expressed dismay over the federal government’s delay in fulfilling commitments made at the time of the merger of the erstwhile Federal Administered Tribal Area (FATA) with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Talking to a delegation of elders from Baizai area of the tribal district Mohmand, he recalled that the federal government had pledged one trillion rupees over ten years for the newly merged districts, of which over Rs550 billion still remain outstanding, placing additional strain on provincial finances.
The Chief Minister stressed that his government continues to pursue these matters with the federal authorities and will not compromise on the constitutional and legitimate rights of the Province under any circumstances.
The delegation discussed administrative challenges, law & order challenges and development priorities of the merged districts. They reaffirmed their commitment to support the provincial government in its efforts for peace, provincial rights, and sustained development in the tribal belt.
However, Chief Minister underscored that restoring peace remains the foremost priority of his administration, adding that no development or prosperity is possible He told the delegation that the provincial government is undertaking sincere efforts to strengthen the education, health, and social service infrastructure in the merged districts.
He announced that a university, along with medical and nursing colleges, will be established to expand access to higher education and professional training for tribal youth.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2025