Ex-Fata to be declared tax-free zone for 10 year

KHAR: Restoration of lasting peace in the troubled Bajaur tribal district topped the Pakistan People’s Party four-point election manifesto announced here on Sunday.

Speaking at a press conference at Chattan House, former lawmaker and PPP leader Akhunzada Chattan along with other leaders said that people were still yearning for peace, bread, cloth and shelter today, which was the slogan of his party several decades ago.

“We will strive hard to bring lasting peace to the volatile Bajaur district with mutual consultation with the stakeholders, including the people,” he said, adding that the recommendations of Sartaj Aziz Committee would be implemented in letter and spirit by taking all on board.

Akhunzada Chattan, who is also candidate for NA-8, said that job opportunities would be created in Bajaur besides taking steps for provision of cheap justice and ending poverty.

He also said that erstwhile Fata would also be declared a tax-free zone for at least 10 years to facilitate local people and improve their economic condition. The PPP, the ex-lawmaker said, would demand practical implementation of the National Action Plan to end the ongoing militancy and terrorism once and for all while the region would be prevented from becoming a buffer zone for wars of others.

“Subsidy on electricity, import of machinery and facilities for establishing businesses would be demanded besides facilitating womenfolk through the Benazir Income Support Programme and skill development,” the PPP leader pledged.