PESHAWAR: The elders of the protesting Kukikhels have announced their plans to hold a large public meeting in August, urging the government to address their demands.
These demands include the return of displaced families, a reduction in power outages, and the resolution of a land dispute with the Peshawar Development Authority (PDA).
The elders, led by Malak Naseer Ahmad, Barkat Katiyakhel, Ahmad Shah Maniyakhel, Malak Zarab Abdalkhel, and Malak Khan Afzal Mandukhel, also revealed their intention to hoist black flags atop their houses during Pakistan’s 76th Independence Day celebrations as a sign of protest for not meeting their ‘legitimate’ demands.
During a news conference held at Jamrud Press Club, the Kukikhel elders called upon the provincial government and Tesco to engage in negotiations to resolve the issues of phased-wise return of displaced families, provision of six hours of electricity to domestic consumers, and the dispute over land acquired by PDA for Regi Lalma Model Township.
As their protest sit-in marked its three-week milestone on Monday, the Kukikhel elders expressed their commitment to continue the peaceful protest at the historic Bab-i-Khyber until the relevant government departments address their concerns.
They claimed that the return of the remaining Kukikhel families was suddenly halted without any explanation.
Furthermore, they protested that Tesco failed to fulfill its written commitment to provide six hours of electricity daily.
While the PDA and Peshawar district authorities showed reluctance in resolving the boundary line dispute dating back to the 1912 Messi Griffith Award agreement.
Additionally, the Kukikhel elders demanded compensation and rent for their properties occupied by security forces in Rajgal and the surrounding areas of Tirah Valley.
Besides, they also mentioned plans to invite leaders of major political parties to participate in their upcoming public meeting, with the date to be announced soon.
Source: DAWN
