In a recent resignation, the Chairman of VC 25 Gutkey Mamund expressed deep frustration over his tenure.
Despite serving for three years, he admitted to being unaware of his responsibilities, the functioning of his office, the allocation of funds, and the privileges of his position. He remarked, “The people of the area turn to me for many issues, but I have nothing to offer but apologies because we lack the necessary resources. I am compelled to resign to convey to the authorities the extent of disappointment among the people. The dissatisfaction with the local government system has grown, and no one will be willing to enter this field in the future."
Dr. Khalil-ur-Rehman, who secured the seat of Tehsil Nazim Navagai sub-division under the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf ticket, reflected on the uniqueness of these elections in the tribal districts. He emphasized that these were the first municipal elections in the history of the tribal districts. Additionally, the constituencies for Tehsil chairman in some areas were larger than two or three provincial constituencies. His constituency was particularly vast, and many candidates were uncertain about their roles and responsibilities. However, for the first time, their area experienced vibrant democratic and political activity with active participation from everyone. Unfortunately, this enthusiasm yielded only disappointment and deprivation.
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Dr. Khalil noted that his constituency covered an area equivalent to approximately two and a half provincial constituencies. "I polled more than 22,000 votes in this constituency, and people participated enthusiastically in the process. But even after three years, we have not had our salaries fixed, nor have we received the necessary funds and benefits. This makes it difficult for us to face the voters," he lamented.
Several other VC Chairmen, including Chamarkand Noor Shah, Tani Mamund Rahatullah, and Gutkey Muntazir Khan, have also resigned from their posts. Additionally, the Chairman of VC Mandal has resigned from the Khar sub-division.
On December 19, 2021, local body elections were held for the first time in the tribal districts after the FATA merger. The residents were hopeful that around 500 representatives would be elected from 127 union councils, which would ease the difficulties of the region's people by providing access to their elected representatives at three different forums instead of one.
However, over time, both the elected representatives and the people have become disillusioned with the local governments. Many local government candidates have started leaving the system due to their business or other engagements, with collective resignation announcements forthcoming.
Former provincial minister and current MPA Anwarzeb Khan shared with TNN that during the previous government, he had held several meetings with the relevant authorities to address these issues and demands. "We took time from the former chief minister several times and made efforts to bring this issue to the parliamentary floor. Unfortunately, our government collapsed, and we were unable to complete our plan."
He further stated that integrating the tribal areas into the mainstream was a long-standing dream of Leader of the People Imran Khan. During his tenure, Imran Khan was determined to include the tribal districts in the development race alongside the scheduled areas. "We will now strive to implement this vision and raise our voices at every forum for the allocation of funds, powers, and incentives," he affirmed.
