Afridi’s election as CM termed historic for tribal people

BARA: The residents of Khyber district on Monday described the election of Muhammad Sohail Afridi as chief minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as a historic and memorable moment for the tribal people.

They said the day marked a moment of pride and happiness for the tribal population, which had long faced hardships in their areas.Talking to The News, Chairman of the Shalobar Qaumi Council, Lal Nabi Afridi, along with other members, extended heartfelt congratulations to the newly-elected chief minister.

“History has written a new chapter today as Sohail Afridi becomes the first chief minister from the tribal areas which is a moment of great pride for the entire tribal region,” said Lal Nabi.He added that the chief minister-elect symbolized hope, leadership, and stability not only for the tribal districts but for the entire province.

“His success proves that the tribal people have the ability, determination, and talent to play a prominent role at the provincial level,” remarked another elder, Sardar Muhammad.He expressed confidence that Chief Minister-elect Sohail Afridi, with his integrity, vision, and people-friendly approach, would lead Khyber Pakhtunkhwa towards peace, development, and prosperity.

The elder prayed for the chief minister’s success in his mission of justice, public service, and good governance, particularly for the uplift of the tribal districts.Social activist Saeedullah Afridi said the tribal people had long been deprived of basic facilities such as education, healthcare, and road infrastructure.

“We need schools, hospitals, clean drinking water, roads, and other essential amenities to improve our quality of life and achieve socioeconomic equality,” he said, adding that literacy rates in the merged districts were significantly lower than in other parts of the province.

A journalist, Saleem Afridi, said the people hoped the new chief minister would prioritize the development of the province, especially the erstwhile Fata, which had suffered immense damage during two decades of militancy.