Out on the streets: ANP Wana demands reopening border in Angoor Adda

Ask for better mobile coverage, compensation for losses during operations

D I KHAN: Members of Awami National Party protested in Wana Bazaar, demanding the government open ways for locals to connect with Afghanistan via Angoor Adda for trade.

Trade and business

“Since three months, the Pakistan-Afghanistan border in Angoor Adda, South Waziristan Agency has been closed due to which trade has been affected,” said Ayaz Wazir, who contested elections from NA-41 (in SWA). While addressing a gathering at the protest on Sunday, he said, “We request authorities in both the countries to open the border.”



Protesters said the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor should be built as per the “original plan” that includes a more prominent route through Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa.

“The government is ignoring our needs of education and health,” said ANP South Waziristan President Azizullah. “An example of the negligence of authorities is Agency Headquarters Hospital Wana where the rate of corruption is high.” Azizullah said, “Even medicines from in the facility are sold in private markets and equipment is also missing.”

He alleged the agency surgeon and the political administration of the agency were involved in embezzling hospital funds.

Strong signals

The protesters demanded a system be set up through which locals can get stronger mobile signals. Party members also asked that residents of Wana be compensated for losses incurred during army action in the area.

ANP members also carried took out a rally from Rustam Bazaar to Azam Warsak, after which they gathered near Mir Zalam Petrol Pump.

ANP was not able to carry out political activities during May 2013 general elections due to the pressure of militants. Even the polling agents of the party did not stay inside polling stations in NA-41 over safety concerns.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 28^th, 2015.