Restoration of peace, elimination of corruption major challenges in Malakand division: PPP

Dr Haider Ali Khan, the provincial information secretary of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), highlighted the significant challenges faced by the current provincial administration in Malakand division during a press conference in Swat. The major issues identified include restoring peace, strengthening the rule of law, eradicating corruption, and addressing longstanding concerns in Swat and other districts of the Malakand division.

Khan, who was entrusted by PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari with this role, pledged to effectively communicate the party's stance to the public and fulfill their expectations.

Khan emphasized that the province currently finds itself in an extraordinary situation, where providing a peaceful environment, employment opportunities, and fostering development and prosperity is a fundamental right of its people. He stated that while the imposition of governor’s rule and emergency were constitutional measures, they were not decisions taken willingly.

Despite Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari's efforts to maintain a democratic government in the province and prevent the imposition of the governor’s rule, all other options were exhausted before this decision was made.

The PPP leader stressed that restoring peace in the province is paramount, as peace is crucial for creating employment opportunities and ensuring public prosperity. He further highlighted that peace is equally important for strengthening democracy, making it a top priority for the current administration. Khan stressed the importance of good governance, the supremacy of law, and a robust administrative system, while also calling for the elimination of corruption and malpractices, which have allegedly caused losses to the national exchequer during previous administrations.

He also highlighted the longstanding challenges in the health, education, and employment sectors of Swat and the Malakand division, calling for an immediate review of the decision to impose taxes in the region. Khan suggested that the government should first focus on economic recovery, restoring peace, and creating employment opportunities, following the recommendations of the Sartaj Aziz Commission.