PM Shehbaz Sharif Holds Historic Jirga with Tribal Elders

PM Shehbaz Reinstates Quotas for Merged Districts, Hosts Tribal Jirga

Islamabad: Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif recently convened a significant Jirga at the Prime Minister House, welcoming tribal elders from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s merged districts. The delegation, led by Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F) chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, engaged in crucial discussions concerning peace, development, and administrative challenges in their region.

A major outcome of the meeting was the Prime Minister’s announcement to reinstate educational quotas for students from the merged districts in medical colleges and engineering universities, a decision enthusiastically received by the tribal elders.

Prime Minister Sharif expressed his honor in hosting representatives from a region renowned for its rich traditions and history, acknowledging the immense sacrifices made by the tribal people for Pakistan’s peace and security. He reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring law and order in these areas.

He also commended the armed forces, police, and other law enforcement agencies for their bravery in combating terrorism, emphasizing the importance of unity for a peaceful Pakistan.

Highlighting the government’s dedication to the socio-economic uplift of the region, the Prime Minister detailed substantial federal investments in education, healthcare, skills training, and youth employment opportunities. Significant funds from the current development budget have been allocated to improve infrastructure, including FATA University and police facilities.

Furthermore, the Prime Minister directed an expansion of the federal committee addressing issues in the merged districts, now to include tribal elder representation for more inclusive decision-making.

The tribal delegation expressed their appreciation for the restored educational quotas, their inclusion in the federal committee, and the overall developmental initiatives. They also lauded the armed forces for their decisive response to recent tensions with India.

Prime Minister Sharif assured the elders of regular consultative sessions to ensure their voices are heard and concerns effectively addressed. The meeting was also attended by several federal ministers and key government officials.