Complete state writ prevails in South Waziristan, say elders

WANA: Dispelling the impression and propaganda by the Western media about resurgence of militants in South Waziristan Agency, the tribal elders on Friday claimed that government had restored its writ in their area and peace prevailed there.
Speaking at a press conference at Angoor Ada, Malik Rahmatullah Wazir, Maulana Taj Muhammad Wazir, Maulana Mirza Jan Wazir and Maulana Sultan Wazir said that Ahmedzai Wazir tribe and the government were following the 2007 peace agreement.
They said that their tribe had rendered huge sacrifices for the restoration of peace in Wana and rest of South Waziristan. “Around 40 tribal youth laid down their lives when a lashkar of volunteers was formed to drive the militants out of Wana,” Malik Rahmatullah Wazir said.
They said that Western media was creating the impression that Taliban had returned to Wana and had challenged the writ of the state in the South Waziristan. “The reports are part of the propaganda against Pakistan and tribespeople,” Malik Rahmatullah Wazir alleged.
The elders said that the political administration and tribes with the support of Pakistan Army had implemented the 2007 agreement in letter and spirit.
The elders invited the national and international media to visit the area and file authentic and factual reports on the situation. “There is complete peace here. You can move around without any security,” Malik Rahmatullah Wazir claimed.
When contacted, Assistant Political Agent, Wana, Allah Noor also rejected the reports of alleged distribution of leaflets by the militants in the area. “There is complete government control over the area,” he maintained.