PESHAWAR: JUNE 20, 2025.
Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi on Friday criticized the imposition of taxes in the former FATA, saying that it is fueling resentment and unrest among the tribal population. He said that the rights of the residents of merged districts have been violated and urgent corrective measures are needed. The Governor made these remarks while speaking to a tribal jirga led by former MNA Hameedullah Jan at the Governor’s House. The jirga members informed the Governor about the growing frustration in the merged areas, particularly over the recent 10 percent tax imposed on industries operating in the region. Tribal elders labeled the move as unjust and oppressive.
They also urged the government to compensate for the damages to shops and properties caused during the Bara military operations. Governor Kundi questioned how individuals in Punjab and Islamabad, unfamiliar with local values and ground realities, could make decisions on behalf of the province. "We must take responsibility for bringing peace to our land ourselves," he asserted. He proposed forming a jirga consisting of former parliamentarians and tribal elders from the ex-FATA, assuring that he would act as their advocate at every forum. "The merger happened, but where are the promised facilities?" he asked.