Latest news with #FATA
1724919650-0%2FUntitled-design-(5)1724919650-0-640x480.webp&w=3840&q=100)
Express Tribune
5 days ago
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Imran's release unlikely, sons won't come to Pakistan: K-P Governor
Listen to article Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) Governor Faisal Karim Kundi has said that the release of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan from prison appears unlikely, adding that his sons are also not expected to return to Pakistan. Addressing senior journalists in Peshawar on Saturday, Kundi dismissed speculation about the involvement of Khan's sons, Sulaiman and Kasim, in PTI's upcoming protest campaign. 'It is highly unlikely they will come back,' he said, reiterating that prospects of Imran Khan's release remain slim. Earlier this month, Khan's sister Aleema Khan claimed that both sons would join the party's anti-government protest movement, expected to begin in August. She had also stated that the former prime minister would lead the campaign 'from inside the jail'. Reports suggest that Khan's sons have held meetings with key figures in the United States ahead of their possible visit to Pakistan. However, Governor Kundi appeared dismissive of these developments, describing them as political optics rather than reality. On the broader political and administrative front, the governor stressed the need for a tribal jirga to address unresolved issues in the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA). He proposed that the jirga include tribal elders, ex-parliamentarians, and political stakeholders from the region. 'The merger of FATA with K-P cannot be undone without a constitutional amendment,' he said, urging the federal government to release the development funds that were promised at the time of the merger. Turning to the security situation in the province, Kundi painted a grim picture. 'The law and order situation is dire. Extortion is being collected openly — even in broad daylight — from traders, local leaders, and ordinary citizens,' he said. 'In Dera Ismail Khan, people avoid stepping out of their homes after Asr prayers due to fear.' He also criticised what he termed the federal government's Punjab-centric approach to national initiatives. 'Schemes like the laptop programme, youth development projects, and Daanish Schools have excluded the youth of K-P,' he said. Commenting on the state of sports infrastructure, Kundi described the renovation of Peshawar's Arbab Niaz Stadium as substandard and said the lack of quality sports facilities was one reason why Pakistan Super League (PSL) matches have not been held in the province. On PTI's internal politics, the governor claimed the party was facing deep factionalism in K-P. 'They cannot even bring out 20 vehicles for their planned protest on August 5,' he concluded.
Business Recorder
6 days ago
- Politics
- Business Recorder
Merged districts in KP: PM reiterates commitment to establishing peace and security
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday reiterated the government's commitment to establishing peace and security in the merged districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, formerly known as the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), stating that ensuring stability in the region remains a top national priority. He was speaking at a jirga convened at the Prime Minister's House, which was attended by a delegation led by Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman. The meeting focused on issues concerning law and order, governance, and development in the merged districts. In a key announcement, Sharif said that the government had decided to restore educational quotas for students from the merged districts in medical and engineering institutions. The announcement was met with appreciation by tribal elders, who described it as a significant step towards equitable access to higher education. 'It gives me great pleasure to host you today,' Sharif said while addressing the delegation. 'The tribal areas are steeped in history and tradition. The people of these regions have rendered unmatched sacrifices for the cause of national peace and security.' Sharif paid tribute to the military, police, and law enforcement agencies for their role in combating terrorism. 'Their unwavering resolve continues to be a source of strength for the country,' he remarked. Calling for unity across the political and religious spectrum, the prime minister urged all stakeholders to contribute to making Pakistan a peaceful and stable state. Outlining his government's development priorities, Sharif said a special focus was being placed on improving education, healthcare, skills training, and employment opportunities, particularly for youth in the merged districts. He announced that this year's federal development budget included allocations for the upgrading of the FATA University and improvements in police infrastructure. The prime minister also directed the expansion of the federal committee on merged districts, chaired by Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs, Gilgit-Baltistan and Frontier Regions, Amir Muqam. The committee will now include representation from tribal elders to ensure inclusive decision making. The visiting delegation expressed appreciation for the government's efforts and welcomed the restoration of quotas and the expanded mandate of the committee. They also lauded the armed forces for their 'strategic and courageous' response during recent tensions with India. Concluding the meeting, Sharif assured the tribal elders of continued engagement and regular consultative sessions aimed at addressing the region's socio-economic challenges. The jirga was attended by federal ministers, Ahsan Iqbal, Azam Nazeer Tarar, Attaullah Tarar, Awais Leghari, Amir Muqam, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi, and advisers, Parvez Khattak, Dr Tauqir Shah, and others. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
24-07-2025
- Politics
- Business Recorder
Religious parties reject the Abraham Accords
ISLAMABAD: Leaders of various religious political parties, Wednesday, while condemning Israel's aggression against Palestine and Iran have rejected the Abraham Accords as well as the Two-State solution to the Palestine issue, saying they will strongly oppose any such move. Speaking at a National Consultation Conference organised by Milli Yakjehti Council (MYC), they also defended Iran's right to defend itself. In a declaration they warned of strong resistance to any attempt by the government of Pakistan to recognise Israel. The council also expressed concern over the steps allegedly being taken against religious seminaries. The declaration further stated that it was Iran's right to have a nuclear programme. It called upon the government to adopt a firm stance on the issues of Kashmir and Palestine. The council demanded the prime minister convene an all-parties' conference on the situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) and Balochistan while demanding the production of all the missing persons countrywide. It also demanded that the Council of Common Interests (CCI) be activated again, asking the government to address the problems being faced by the flood-affected people. 'Interest-based system should be abolished and Islamic economic system must be enforced in the country,' read the declaration. The council said it rejected the laws stipulating punishments for marriages under the age of 18. It warned the government of a countrywide protest campaign in case it did not repeal the laws. The declaration also called for finding solutions to political issues through political means. 'Or, otherwise, the system would be in jeopardy,' it warned. Addressing the council meeting, Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam Fazal (JUI-F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman said that interest-based system should be abolished by January 1, 2028. 'If the government does not keep its promise, we will take it to court,' he threatened, saying in that case things would become difficult for the government. He said that certain elements were trying to pave the way to change the status of Kashmir by abolishing formerly FATA status. Maulana Fazl said that geographical changes have begun in the region under a global agenda. He accused both the government and Taliban for drone attacks, saying common people were being targeted in such attacks by both sides. He said that the state should not back down even an inch in its stance while fighting against terrorism. He said that in KPK and Balochistan, there was no government existing owing to lawlessness. He said that in the past the people of Swat and Waziristan were forced to evacuate and migrate to other parts of the country as the state wanted to launch the military operation against the terrorists but this has not benefited as the terrorists have once again attained hold on certain areas. The conference also expressed serious concern over national as well as international issues and condemned recent incidents of violence countrywide. Speaking on the occasion, Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) chief Hafiz Naeemur Rehman said that the silence of Muslim countries on the ongoing genocide in Palestine amounts to indirect support for Israel. He emphasised the urgent need for Muslim states to adopt a bold and principled stance on global Muslim causes, including Palestine and Kashmir. 'The situation in Palestine is not just a regional issue—it is a battle for the liberation of Al-Quds,' he stated. 'Over 100 innocent Palestinians, including women and children, are being martyred daily under brutal Israeli bombings. Where are the so-called human rights champions of the West now?' He strongly condemned the Abraham Accords and warned that any move by Pakistan towards normalization with Israel would be met with strong resistance. 'Pakistan must never recognise Israel. Our founding father, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, called Israel an illegitimate child of the West,' he reminded. Highlighting the resilience of Hamas, Rehman declared, 'This is a war of truth versus falsehood. Hamas has acted within the framework of international law. We must clearly and unconditionally stand with them. Pakistan should even consider allowing Hamas to open a diplomatic office.' He criticised the US President Donald Trump's double standards, noting his swift response during Iran's counterattacks on Israel, while remaining silent when India committed aggression in Kashmir. 'Pakistan doesn't need any mediation by Trump when United Nations resolutions on Kashmir already exist,' he said, reaffirming that no compromise would be accepted on the Kashmiris' right to self-determination. The JI leader demanded that the government publicly disclose what practical steps it has taken to eliminate interest (riba) from the economy. 'There must be a strong and collective voice for the eradication of interest-based systems,' he urged. He also warned against attempts to weaken or repeal the blasphemy laws and protect offenders under the guise of legal reform. 'Any group or individual misusing these laws should be held accountable, but efforts to abolish or undermine them must be firmly resisted,' he said. Hafiz Naeemur Rehman praised Iran for its bold stance against Israeli aggression and called for Muslim unity across ideological and national lines. 'This is the time to awaken our rulers and stand with the oppressed—whether in Gaza or in Kashmir. Only a bold and sincere stance can restore the dignity and leadership of the Muslim Ummah.' Addressing the conference, Allama Arif Hussain Wahidi strongly condemned the killing of a man and a woman in Balochistan. He said that 19 men opened fire on a woman, calling it an act of cowardice rather than bravery. He demanded that those responsible be brought to justice and that the incident be pursued to its conclusion. Allama Wahidi also voiced concern over rising inflation, saying it has made life unbearable for the public. He urged the government to immediately reduce petrol prices and take effective measures to control inflation and ease the economic burden on citizens. Referring to Operation Bunyanum Marsoos, he said the operation had sent a strong message to India and delivered a firm response to the enemy. Other religious leaders at the conference also stressed the need for unity and solidarity in facing national challenges. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Express Tribune
13-07-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Fazl provides grist to rumour mill over K-P govt fate
Amid swirling rumours of a brewing "regime change" in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman on Saturday threw his weight behind the idea of political change in the PTI-led province, but with a caveat that the change must come from within the ruling party itself. Dismissing the notion of backdoor manoeuvring, the Maulana asserted that the legitimacy cannot be handed down by "boots" but must stem from the will of the people. He further lambasted both the federal and provincial governments as having "sold out". "We do not want a government handed to us by the boots, we want one backed by the people." Addressing a news conference in Peshawar, the JUI-F chief said the law-and-order situation across the country was rapidly deteriorating. "Fresh news is always about some kind of unrest," he said, citing the recent killing of an ANP politician, Maulana Khan Zeb, in Bajaur, worsening instability in Balochistan and unrest in Sindh. "We know for a fact that the ruling elite is paying extortion money to extremist groups," he claimed. The JUI-F chief said that political change in K-P was essential, whether it comes from within the ruling PTI or through external political realignment. "My preference is change in the province. If it comes from within the ruling party, that's fine too," he added. Referring to incarcerated PTI founder Imran Khan, he said, "If his children come to Pakistan, I have no objection," adding that politics involves differences, not enmity. "We may disagree with the PML-N, PPP or PTI, but we always keep the door open for dialogue, even the PTI people come and talk to me," he said. The Maulana further claimed the province enjoyed full peace during his government's tenure. "You could travel anywhere without incident. There were no police checkpoints. No terrorism. Peace prevailed," he recalled. He also called for an all-parties conference to discuss law and order. Regarding the erstwhile Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) merger with K-P, he said it was a "wrong decision" taken under pressure and signals, and all political parties must now admit it. "Everyone joined the bandwagon, thinking the FATA merger was a good idea. We kept saying it wasn't. Now, reversing that mistake is in the national interest," he advised. He expressed frustration that, even after eight years, FATA still lacked basic administration. "No patwari can go there even today. We were told land records are being compiled in FATA — when I asked how, I was told it's being done using satellites." The JUI-F leader pointed out that a grand tribal jirga was going to be held on Sunday, saying his party respected such forums. "We had always wanted decisions about FATA's political future to be taken with input from its tribal elders, not through unilateral decisions." He said his party had been recognised as a stakeholder in the government's committee on FATA, and that it had been asked to nominate representatives. "But how many members on the committee are actually from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa or even Pashtun?" he questioned. "The province's money is only being used to appoint parliamentary secretaries and for luxuries. This is an extortion-backed, rigged government." When asked about jailed politicians, he said that no politician should be behind bars, "but yes, politicians do go to jail. However, political movements are not just about getting released, they are waged for great causes".
Business Recorder
12-07-2025
- Politics
- Business Recorder
Fazl wants ‘political change' in KP
PESHAWAR: Expressing his desire for change in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) Chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman said that since the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) holds the majority in KP and any change in the province should come from within the party itself. Speaking at a news conference here on Saturday, JUI-F chief stated that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is suffering from insecurity, Sindh is under the control of criminals, and Balochistan is facing terrorism, while the rulers are extorting armed groups. How terrorism could be eradicated from the country; emphasising that this is a matter to ponder over now, Fazl questioned. The party chief suggested that change should come to the province, specifically from within the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) in KP. He claimed that during JUI-F's government, there was complete peace and order in the province; and any decision regarding change in KP would be made after consultation within the party. The JUI-F chief remarked that the KP government's majority is 'fake' and that the province cannot afford political turmoil. Terming the merger of the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) as a wrong decision made without consultation, Fazl called for the reversal of this constitutional amendment in the national interest. He urged political parties to acknowledge that the FATA merger was a mistake. He suggested that those responsible should acknowledge their lack of political insight. Regarding the Senate elections, he said: 'I cannot comment on any adjustment yet, but future plans would be decided after consultations with jirgas, and all decisions would involve the consultation of FATA tribes. A grand jirga of FATA tribes is scheduled for tomorrow, he added. He said that whether the government regretted its actions or if it is merely a strategy to exploit FATA's natural resources. Fazl said, 'If I was satisfied with the federal government's performance, I would be part of it, but since assemblies have been bought, I cannot be part of corrupt government.' He further stated that differences among political parties are common, but they should not turn into personal enmities. He said that JUI-F would not recognise armed groups, suggesting that PTI could hold talks if it changes its attitude. He shared that young PTI workers visit him, sit with him, and ask him questions. To a question, he said he could not comment on seat adjustments regarding the Senate. Urging acceptance of the public's decision, Fazl said, 'The JUI-F will not come to power relying on anyone. If the JUI-F-led government comes to power, corruption and extortion will end. Talking about the PTI protests movement, the JUI chief said that the protest movement should be for a greater cause, not merely for the release of any individual. Fazl added that if any issues arise with the Pakistan Peoples' Party (PPP), they would sit together to resolve them, and an All-Parties Conference (APC) should be convened to address law and order concerns. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
