K-P local bodies plan fresh protests

Officials demand powers, unpaid funds from govt

PESHAWAR:

Local government representatives in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) have announced plans to resume protests due to unresolved issues, including lack of administrative powers and continued delays in the release of development funds, despite repeated assurances from the provincial government.

The Local Council Association (LCA) will soon convene a meeting to finalize the protest strategy. Speaking to the media, LCA Coordinator Chairman Intizar Ali Khalil, Tehsil Chairman Landi Kotal Shah Khalid, and Tehsil Chairman Central Kurram Ehsanullah stated that local governments across the province have remained paralyzed for the past three years.

They lamented that despite holding several rounds of talks with the K-P government, development funds for local bodies have yet to be released.

The LCA coordinator added that a comprehensive meeting will be held to decide the next course of action after the return of LCA President and Mayor Mardan Hayatullah Mayar, and LCA Spokesperson Tehsil Chairman Sarai Naurang (Lakki Marwat) Azizullah Khan Marwat.

In May of last year, chairmen of neighborhood and village councils from across K-P had staged a protest outside the provincial assembly, demanding the release of withheld funds. Protesters accused the government of failing to provide essential financial support for over two years, leaving local governments unable to address basic community needs.

During that demonstration, protesters blocked Khyber Road, halting vehicular traffic and causing major disruptions throughout the city. They chanted slogans against the government, condemning its delaying tactics.

The representatives also highlighted that Nazims had received only Rs40,000 as honorarium over two years—an amount they said was not even enough to cover office rent due to lack of operational funds.

They recalled that during a previous strike, they were invited to the Chief Minister's House for negotiations. However, no practical measures were taken following those discussions.

The local government leaders have now announced plans for another sit-in outside the Chief Minister's House, demanding immediate release of all outstanding dues and blocked funds from the past two years, while urging the government to prioritize resolution of local body issues.