Survey Reveals Strong Support in KP for Afghan Refugee Repatriation

A recent Gallup Pakistan survey indicates that a significant majority of residents in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province are in favor of the federal government’s initiative to repatriate undocumented Afghan refugees.

The survey, which included feedback from 3,000 individuals across KP, revealed that 85% of respondents supported the repatriation efforts. Conversely, 11% expressed opposition, and 4% did not provide a response.

Expected Improvements in Security and Economy

The survey also explored perceptions regarding the potential impact of the repatriation on security and the economy.

  • Security: 79% of those surveyed anticipate an improvement in the security landscape following the return of Afghan refugees, while 16% disagreed, and 5% remained undecided.
  • Economy: A majority (62%) believe that the KP economy will benefit from the repatriation. However, 23% hold a different view, and 8% foresee no noticeable change. 7% did not offer an opinion.
Divergent Views on Job Impact

Opinions were split concerning the influence of Afghan refugees on employment opportunities within the province. 41% suggested a negative impact, while 48% perceived it as positive.

Government Performance Ratings

The survey also assessed public perception of the government’s handling of the refugee situation:

  • KP Government: 62% commended the KP government’s management of Afghan refugees, while 27% rated their performance negatively. 11% did not provide an assessment.
  • Federal Government: 59% expressed satisfaction with the federal government’s performance, whereas 35% indicated dissatisfaction. 6% did not respond.
Preference for Provincial Handling of Local Issues

Participants indicated a preference for the KP government to address local issues rather than the federal government.

Comparative Effectiveness
  • Local Problem Solving: 37% believed the provincial government is better equipped to resolve local issues, compared to 13% who favored the federal government.
  • Employment Provision: 36% considered the KP government superior in providing employment, while 14% favored the federal government.
  • Poverty Alleviation: 34% felt the provincial government was more effective in poverty alleviation, compared to 12% who preferred the federal government.
  • Healthcare Provision: 44% rated the KP government higher in providing health facilities, while 13% favored the federal government.
Local Government Performance

Overall, 58% assessed the performance of local governments in KP as satisfactory, while 36% expressed criticism. 6% did not answer.

Specifically, satisfaction levels regarding the provision of essential services by local bodies were as follows:

  • Clean Water: 66% satisfied
  • Medical Facilities: 61% satisfied
  • Road Repair: 58% satisfied

The survey noted a narrowing gap between satisfaction and dissatisfaction concerning sanitation, sewage drainage, and maintenance of recreational areas.