Sports festival enthrals Mohmand Agency

40 competitions held simultaneously for the first time in agency’s history

GHALLANAI: The Mohmand Sports Festival concluded in agency headquarters Ghallanai on Monday.

The gala comprised over 40 competitions held simultaneously for the first time in Mohmand Agency’s history. Political Agent Waqar Ali Khan and high-ranking military and civil officers were present at the closing ceremony of the event that marked the return of such festivities in the agency after a seven-year gap.

PHOTO: MUREEB MOHMAND/EXPRESS

During his address, Waqar said these festivals are a manifestation of the intent of the political administration and security forces (to bring peace). They will continue to put together such events in future, he added.

The festival started on March 5 in Ekka Ghund sub-division. The list of events was an amalgam of both modern track and field games and traditional sports like kabaddi, a dog race as well as a cattle show. Students from schools and colleges across the agency participated in the athletic meet.

PHOTO: MUREEB MOHMAND/EXPRESS

Official patronage

Folk singer Lal Khan told The Express Tribune this was the first time artistes were invited to the political administration headquarters for a performance. “The people of Mohmand Agency have finally overcome their fears,” he noted gleefully.

Lal said in the past, militancy had taken over life in the public sphere and recreation was both condemned and ignored.

“We have seen our athletes in action after a long time. We will not let militants take over our playgrounds,” said college student Akhtar Khan.

Markazi Adabi Tolana president and poet Jahandar Shah Jalbal told The Express Tribune such events will positively impact tribal society. “We have seen a lot of bloodshed over the years. It is time we stop fighting,” Jalbal said. “Sports and cultural activities are vital for the restoration of normalcy.”

As the agency continues to battle for peace, the administration has announced a five-hour relaxation from 7pm to 12am in its curfew which ends at 6am.