PTI failed to provide relief despite repeated mandates in KP: Amir Muqam

SWAT: Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs, Gilgit-Baltistan and SAFRON Amir Muqam on Sunday criticised Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf for what he described as its failure to provide relief to the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa despite governing the province for over a decade.

Addressing a public gathering during an open court (Khuli Kachehri) in Swat, the minister said the province’s residents had given the party a mandate three consecutive times but were still facing mounting economic and social challenges.

He alleged that recurring protest activities were disrupting daily life across the province.

“Sometimes there is a shutter-down strike, sometimes a wheel-jam strike, and now roads are being blocked in the name of one person’s release,” he said, adding that such actions were affecting ordinary citizens.

According to the minister, transport disruptions were causing serious humanitarian concerns, including delays in emergency medical services and shortages of essential supplies. He claimed that patients were unable to reach hospitals in time and travellers were missing flights, while the movement of food items was also being hindered.

The open court, held at Fizagat, drew participation from local residents, political workers, and officials from federal departments. Senior administrative officers attended the session to receive public complaints directly and coordinate with relevant authorities.

During the event, the minister heard grievances from citizens on a range of issues, including infrastructure, utilities, and public services. He issued immediate directions to officials to address several complaints on the spot, officials said.

Muqam also referred to energy supply issues in the Malakand division, stating that a ban on new gas connections imposed in 2018 had been lifted and that gas supply schemes were currently under implementation in different localities.

Criticising the provincial administration, he said the situation was particularly disappointing given the repeated electoral support extended by voters. He maintained that the public would hold the ruling party accountable in the next provincial elections if conditions did not improve.

The minister expressed concern that citizens who had repeatedly exercised their democratic choice were now experiencing increased hardship, describing the situation as difficult to justify.

Highlighting federal initiatives, Muqam said the government led by Shehbaz Sharif was focused on providing relief measures nationwide without discrimination. He emphasised that development projects and welfare programmes were being implemented in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on merit.

He pointed to the Ramazan relief package as a key example of federal support, stating that financial assistance for eligible households had been increased significantly compared with the previous year. According to the minister, the programme was intended to help low-income families cope with rising prices during the holy month.

Muqam reiterated that the Pakistan Muslim League (N) prioritises public welfare, development, and service-oriented politics. He pledged that efforts would continue to address local issues in Swat as well as broader challenges across the province.

Open courts are periodically organised by government representatives to facilitate direct interaction with citizens, allowing authorities to assess local concerns and expedite administrative action. Officials said such forums aim to improve service delivery and strengthen public trust in governance mechanisms.

The session concluded after officials recorded complaints for follow-up action and the minister assured participants that their concerns would be pursued with the relevant departments.