All Parties Conference in Timergara Rejects Tax Imposition in Malakand Division

Political parties, business representatives and civil society leaders at an All Parties Conference (APC) in Timergara unanimously rejected the government’s decision to impose taxes in Malakand Division, calling on authorities to first address longstanding development and public service challenges in the region.

The conference, organized by Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI), brought together representatives from political parties, the traders’ community, the Chemists and Druggists Association, the Chamber of Commerce and members of the legal fraternity. Participants said they were not opposed to the state but argued that taxation should follow equitable development and access to public services.

Leaders Call for Equal Development

Addressing the conference, JUI Lower Dir Ameer Sirajuddin, Acting JUI Timergara Tehsil Ameer Maulana Muhammad Nabi Shah, Anjuman-e-Tajiran Timergara President Haji Anwaruddin, PTI Lower Dir General Secretary Asif Iqbal Sadat, Chamber of Commerce representatives and other speakers said residents of Malakand Division should receive the same constitutional rights, facilities and development opportunities available in other parts of Pakistan before new taxes are introduced.

They said the region continues to face poor infrastructure, inadequate healthcare and education services, and limited economic opportunities.

Concerns Over Public Services and Employment

Speakers said deteriorating roads, insufficient healthcare facilities and a lack of quality educational institutions remain major challenges for local communities.

They also noted that limited employment opportunities have forced many educated young people from the region to seek work in Gulf countries.

The participants questioned the introduction of additional taxes while basic public services remain underdeveloped and urged the government to prioritize peace, infrastructure, healthcare, education and job creation.

Protest Warning if Decision Stands

The conference warned that if the federal government does not withdraw the proposed taxation policy for Malakand Division, political parties, traders and civil society groups will launch a division-wide shutter-down strike and wheel-jam protest.

Participants said they would continue pursuing their demands through peaceful and democratic means until the government reviews its decision.

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