GHALANAI, Dec 26: The elders of Khwezai tribe on Wednesday demanded early resumption of work on development schemes in light of the elimination of militancy in Mohmand Agency.

The demand was made during a jirga here in Bahi Dag area.

Political agent of Mohmand Agency Dr Amber Ali Khan, Mohmand Rifles commandant Colonel Mushtaq Hussain, assistant political agent Biazai Ghazai Nawaz, Khwezai tehsildar Nawab Khan and Biazai tehsildar Riaz Khan were also in attendance.

During the jirga, the Khwezai elders assured the political administration and security forces that their tribesmen would play the due role in restoration of peace in the area.

Khwezai Peace Committee chief Malik Fayaz Khan and other tribal elders said they were peace-loving people and wanted peace and development in the previously restive agency.

They said they would continue supporting security forces for restoration of peace in the area.

Colonel Mushtaq told participants that ideology of militants was not acceptable to the people as the former were playing in the hands of the enemy and bent on damaging the country’s interests.

He said the nation was proud of tribesmen, who rendered tremendous sacrifices for the country.

The Mohmand Rifles commandant said some militants and their commanders gave the impression that they were fighting the US and Nato forces in Afghanistan, but actually, they had made sanctuaries along the Afghan border and attacking Pakistani security posts and people.

He said a large number of militants established camps in border areas inside Afghanistan, including Rena, Parchwao, Much Megi, Nazarkhel and Mulakhel but the US never targeted them by drones.

Colonel Mushtaq said before the military operation, militants used to target tribal elders and insulted them.

He said tribal elders had played key role in the making liaison between the government and tribesmen before the spillover of militancy to tribal areas.

The Mohmand Rifles commandant said Pak-Afghan route in Gursal area would soon be opened for trade between the two countries. He, however, said restoration of sustainable peace in the region was necessary to boost Pak-afghan trade activities.

The political agent told participants that militants had misguided the nation and targeted the government installations.

He urged tribesmen to get united to protect their schools, hospitals and others interests from militant attacks.

He paid tribute to the tribesmen and security personnel for rendering sacrifices for restoration of peace.

Dr Amber said development work would be carried out throughout the agency without discrimination.

He directed the agency education officer and agency surgeon to ensure that teachers, doctors, paramedics and staff perform duty diligently in their respective areas.

On the occasion, the tribal elders also complained of water shortage, prolonged power outages and lack of health and educational facilities, and demanded corrective measures by the administration.