SWAT: Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) provincial information secretary Dr Haider Ali Khan said on Wednesday that restoring peace, strengthening the rule of law, eliminating corruption and addressing long-standing issues of Swat and other districts of Malakand division were among the major challenges facing the current provincial setup.
Addressing a press conference at Swat Press Club, he said PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari had entrusted him with the responsibility of provincial information secretary.
PPP Swat district president Saleem Khan, Akhtar Hussain, Shamshir Ali Advocate, Shehryar Amir Zeb, Dunya Zeb, and other party office-bearers were also present.
He pledged to meet the leadership’s expectations and effectively communicate the party’s stance to the public. He said the PPP wouldraise its voice effectively to resolve public issues.
He said the province was currently facing an extraordinary situation, adding that providing a peaceful environment, employment opportunities, development and prosperity was the fundamental right of its people.
He said the imposition of governor’s rule and emergency was undoubtedly a constitutional measure, but it was not a decision taken willingly.
Bilawal Bhutto Zardari had made efforts to ensure the continuation of a democratic government in the province and avoid the imposition of governor’s rule, but all other options were exhausted before the decision was taken.
Dr Haider Ali Khan said restoring peace in the province was imperative, as peace was essential for creating employment opportunities and ensuring public prosperity. He added that peace was equally important for strengthening democracy;therefore, restoring law and order should be the foremost priority of the current setup.
He stressed the need for good governance, the supremacy of law and a strong administrative system, while eliminating corruption and malpractice should also be among the key priorities.
He called for accountability of those allegedly involved in corruption and causing losses to the national exchequer during previous governments.
Highlighting the longstanding problems of Swat and Malakand Division, he said health, education and employment sectors were facing numerous challenges that required immediate attention.
He called for a review of the decision to impose taxes in the region, saying that, in light of the recommendations of the Sartaj Aziz Commission, the government should first focus on economic recovery, restoration of peace and creation of employment opportunities.