Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Minister for Information and Public Relations Shafi Jan has said that Chief Minister Sohail Afridi convincingly presented case for constitutional and financial rights of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa during meeting of National Economic Council , effectively advocating for province’s rights and interests of its people.
In a statement regarding NEC meeting, Shafi Jan said that assurance given to update National Finance Commission Award reflects success of provincial government’s stance and marks a positive development for people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
He welcomed the decision to include financial share of merged districts in new NFC Award, stating that it would benefit the people of province, particularly those residing in merged districts.
Provincial Minister Shafi Jan further said that safeguarding constitutional and financial rights of people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa remains top priority of Provincial Government.
” Chief Minister Sohail Afridi has consistently raised an effective voice for province’s rights at every constitutional and national forum.” He added.
Shafii Jan emphasized that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government is not seeking any concession from federal government but is demanding its constitutional and legal rights. He noted that achieving development goals would not be possible without full financial inclusion of merged districts and provincial government is pursuing a comprehensive strategy for the development, rehabilitation and stability of both Settled and merged districts.
He further stated that Federal government owes Khyber Pakhtunkhwa billions of rupees under various heads, including NFC arrears, War on Terror reimbursements and net hydel profit payments. Once these outstanding dues are received, they will be utilized for province’s development, provision of basic services, and public welfare.
Shafii Jan also announced that under leadership of Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, a strong protest demonstration would be held in Islamabad on June 12. He reiterated that provincial government will continue its struggle for constitutional rights, equitable distribution of resources and protection of public interests.