DLP Report
PESHAWAR
Former Member of the Provincial Assembly Shafiq Afridi has expressed serious concern over the federal government’s decision to form a committee to review the justice and jirga systems in the merged tribal districts, calling it a step that has triggered fear among locals of a potential rollback of the merger or a return of these areas to federal control.
In a statement issued on Monday, Afridi said there were reports that the newly formed committee aims to revive the traditional jirga system and reform the existing justice framework in the tribal districts.
While acknowledging the shortcomings of the police and court systems, not only in merged areas but also in settled regions, he emphasized that reviving or legalizing the jirga system could offer a more efficient and accessible form of justice for the tribal population.
He criticized the composition of the committee, stating that it lacks representation from tribal elders, elected parliamentarians, and legal experts from the region.
“There is no justification for including figures like Rana Sanaullah and Ahsan Iqbal on this committee when the people directly affected are being excluded,” he said, adding that the original merger was carried out hastily and without public consultation.
Afridi urged the government to recognize the sacrifices and patriotism of the tribal people and focus on delivering peace, development, and essential rights. He stressed that tax exemptions should be reinstated and included in the policy agenda to promote economic growth and job creation in the merged districts.
