Tribesmen helped restore peace in Fata: Mian Iftikhar

BARA: Awami National Party (ANP) General Secretary Mian Iftikhar Hussain said on Wednesday the tribespeople rendered unprecedented sacrifices for the restoration of peace in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (Fata).

He was speaking as chief guest at a ceremony in connection with the Kamarkhel Super League Cricket Tournament here. Mian Iftikhar said schools, hospitals, and business centres were destroyed in acts of sabotage in Fata. "I am very happy after witnessing the cricket match along with the hundreds of tribespeople, who are enjoying life after restoration of peace," he remarked.

The ANP leader added nobody could imagine taking part in sports activities during in the long reign of militancy in the tribal belt. He said the tribal youth were very talented, but the lack of sports facilities stunted their growth. He urged the government to provide facilities to young generation, particularly in Fata.

Mian Iftikhar added the militants destroyed many schools in Fata that deprived students of education. "The tribal areas lacked education facilities but the bombing of the schools further deteriorated the situation," he added. ANP provincial vice-president Imran Afridi also spoke on the occasion. Later, Mian Iftikhar distributed cash prizes and trophies among the players.