All-Parties Conference in Chakdara Unanimously Opposes New Taxes
An All-Parties Conference (APC) was convened on Saturday in Chakdara, Malakand Division, under the auspices of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) to voice opposition against the imposition of taxes. The gathering drew political leaders from various districts of Malakand Division, representatives of traders' organizations, and members of civil society.
Speakers at the event categorically rejected any form of tax imposition in the region, declaring that all political parties would transcend their differences to launch a united struggle against the decision. They urged the government to consider the special constitutional status and prevailing economic conditions of Malakand Division and the former tribal districts.
Joint Resolution Calls for Jirga and Review of Tax Exemptions
A joint resolution issued at the conclusion of the conference, presented by Muhammad Ali Shah Bacha, stated that economic reforms in the former PATA and FATA regions are essential. However, it added that the federal government should convene a jirga comprising elected Members of the Provincial Assembly and Senators from Malakand Division and give due importance to their recommendations.
Bacha warned that if tax exemptions are not maintained, all parties will jointly formulate a course of action within the bounds of the Constitution and law to protect the rights of the people. The resolution underscored the collective resolve of the political forces in the region.
Governor Kundi Highlights Economic Hardships
Governor Faisal Karim Kundi, addressing the conference, said that Malakand Division and the former FATA are currently grappling with poverty, insecurity, and economic instability. In such circumstances, the imposition of taxes would amount to placing an additional burden on the public.
He stressed that the provincial government must adopt a clear stance on the issue and the federal government should review its decision. The Governor further remarked that the people of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa are already facing hardships due to a lack of employment opportunities, industries, and development projects, making the enforcement of new taxes inappropriate.
Development Funds for Former FATA Remain Unreleased
Governor Kundi also expressed regret over the non-release of development funds announced by the federal government for the former FATA. He noted that the absence of these funds exacerbates the economic challenges faced by the region. The APC concluded with a reaffirmation of the participants' commitment to resist any taxation measures that would further strain the local population.
