ANP plans grand Jirga for launching political activities in Fata

[LahoreEstate]

Sunday, September 13, 2009
By Mumtaz Alvi

ISLAMABAD: The Awami National Party (ANP) has decided to convene a grand Jirga of the tribal elders to discuss the formal launching of political activities in Fata immediately after Eidul Fitr.

The planned Jirga would likely be held at the Chief Minister House in Peshawar and this would be the first major initiative after President Asif Ali Zardari, in a landmark development on the Independence Day , announced the lifting of ban on political activities in Fata.

Initially, the function was planned for September 18, however, it was postponed as ANP Central President Asfandyar Wali would be accompanying President Zardari on his upcoming US visit to attend the United Nations General Assembly session later this month.

“We have already have a political set-up across the tribal areas, but in the changed scene, when political activities have been allowed there, we will like to draw up a fresh strategy,” remarked Senator Afrasiab Khattak. He noted, if necessary, consultations would also be held with other political parties having representation in Fata, following the Jirga in early October.

http://thenews.com.pk/daily_detail.asp?id=198150