Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi's Eid visit to Shalubar was marred by a protest from displaced families of Tirah Valley, highlighting ongoing issues and demands for rehabilitation.
Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi recently visited his ancestral area of Shalubar during the Eidul Azha festival. The occasion saw him hold meetings with local tribal elders, notables, and residents, extending Eid greetings to them while assuring full government cooperation in resolving long-standing issues. However, the visit was overshadowed by a protest demonstration outside his residence organized by families displaced from the Tirah Valley.
Upon arrival, Afridi extended his Eid greetings to the people and assured them of his government’s commitment to addressing their concerns. Tight security arrangements were put in place during the visit, ensuring the safety of the Chief Minister. Several delegations also called on him, presenting suggestions regarding local problems and ongoing development projects.
Outside the residence, the Tirah Affectees Movement organized a protest demonstration. Protesters carried placards and banners, chanting slogans demanding immediate rehabilitation and dignified return for displaced families from Tirah Maidan. Many protesters held banners highlighting their demands for basic amenities such as health facilities, education, electricity, and clean drinking water.
In an interview with journalists, protest organizers successive governments had repeatedly promised the Tirah affectees but failed to translate these promises into action. They accused authorities of unnecessary delays in the repatriation and rehabilitation process, leaving thousands of families homeless and facing severe hardships due to prolonged displacement. The demonstrators demanded a special financial package for reconstructing homes destroyed during past conflicts, an accelerated and honorable return of all displaced families, and immediate steps to provide essential services.
The Chief Minister's visit was seen as an attempt to strengthen connections with his home constituency and listen to grassroots concerns during the festive season. However, the parallel protest underscored the deep frustration among Tirah affectees over the slow pace of government response to their plight. Political observers addressing long-standing issues of displaced families in merged tribal districts remains a major challenge for the provincial government.
While local residents welcomed the engagement from the Chief Minister, the protest highlighted the urgent need for timely resolution of such grievances. Timely action could play a crucial role in restoring public confidence and advancing the region's development and peace process. The provincial government has directed relevant authorities to assess the situation and prepare a report on the grievances of displaced families, indicating a commitment to addressing these issues.
The ongoing challenges faced by Tirah Valley residents reflect broader concerns about displacement and rehabilitation in conflict-affected areas. Addressing these issues effectively will be crucial for maintaining stability and fostering development in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.
