DERA ISMAIL KHAN, Jan 04 (APP): Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi on Sunday emphasized the need for promoting cultural festivals and sports activities across the province, stating that such events project a positive image of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and keep youth engaged in healthy pursuits.
The governor expressed these views while talking to the media at the “Jashn-e-Dhap Aman Mela-2026” held here at Jhok Obhachar, Moza Dhap wherein he participated as a chief guest. The event was organized by Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) District President Malik Farhan Afzal Dhap and Malik Naeem Akbar Dhap, which was attended by a large number of people from the area.
Traditional horse racing was the main attraction of the mela, drawing riders from different regions of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Congratulating the organizers, Governor Kundi praised PPP District President Malik Farhan Afzal Dhap and other organizers for successfully arranging the Aman Mela. He said the public wants such cultural and sports events to be continued, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, as it would help promoting peace, harmony and a positive image of the province.
Commenting on the sports infrastructure in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the governor said that despite 13 years of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) rule in the province, there is still no stadium capable of hosting international matches.
He advised the newly appointed Chief Minister, Sohail Afridi, to focus on constructing new stadiums across the province, adding that if youth were not provided with playgrounds and sports facilities, they may become involved in negative activities.
Responding to a question, Governor Kundi said PTI is suffering from internal confusion and has been unable to nominate leaders of the opposition for the National Assembly and the Senate from within its own ranks. He added that Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif has talked about dialogue on a Charter of Economy, while PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari is calling for a Charter of Democracy.
The governor further said that the international community is now looking towards Pakistan for business and investment, citing the recent visit of the President of the United Arab Emirates as a positive sign. He emphasized that peace and improved law and order remain essential for attracting investment and economic growth, urging the provincial government to take effective measures to ensure stability, as investors only come where there is security.
Criticizing PTI, he termed it an “anarchic party” and said that even after the martyrdom of Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, the PPP raised the slogan of “Pakistan Khappay” and never took any step against the state. He said Afghan refugees should return to their own country and can return through legal means, adding that PTI has opposed their repatriation despite the fact that Afghan nationals have been found involved in several terrorism-related incidents in Pakistan.
In response to another query, Governor Kundi said that if the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa visits Sindh, he will be provided full security and all necessary facilities.
In the horse racing competitions, Malik Nemat Ullah Jai of Khanokhel won his race against Malik Nazakat Weha of Dera Ismail Khan, while Malik Akbar Marhal of Ramak defeated Malik Amir Baloch of Naiwela. In another contest, Khan Muhammad Khan Niazi of Mianwali emerged victorious against Malik Sadiq Dar of Dera Ismail Khan. The race between Malik Sana Muhammad Noon, also known as Malik Aslam Jai of Kloor Kot, and Malik Younis Siyal of Dera Ismail Khan ended in a draw. At the end of the event, Chief Guest Governor Faisal Karim Kundi distributed the trophies and cash prizes among the winners and participating horse riders.
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