TI president advocates reconciliation for KP’s rights

PESHAWAR: Tehreek-e-Istiqlal (TI) central president Rehmat Khan Wardak has emphasised on the importance of cultivating a politics of reconciliation and tolerance to secure the rights of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Speaking at the Peshawar Press Club on Saturday, Wardak urged the provincial government of PTI to pursue a path of prudence and moderation, rather than resorting to coercion and intimidation tactics. Wardak highlighted the significance of political reconciliation for the PTI, saying that while the party garnered a sympathetic vote in the recent general elections, failure to engage in reconciliation politics could jeopardise its electoral support.

He advocated for a shift in governance style and political system, suggesting the adoption of proportional representation, a model utilised in 74 countries worldwide. Wardak also stressed the importance of making agriculture profitable and addressing farmers’ concerns as a top priority to ensure food self-sufficiency. He asserted that political stability was essential for economic stability, condemning any actions that sow chaos and corruption as harmful to the nation.

Expressing dismay over recent incidents, he decried the spreading of hatred against the army as anti-national. He also voiced support for the construction of both small and large dams, including Kalabagh Dam, as crucial steps towards national development. Urging political parties to unite in advocating for proportional representation and system change, Wardak proposed strategic shifts in trade policies, such as procuring petroleum products from countries offering competitive prices in local and Chinese currency.