ANP Rejects Proposed Taxation in Malakand Division, Announces APC and Grand Jirga

The Awami National Party (ANP) has opposed the proposed imposition of taxes in Malakand Division, calling the move unconstitutional and inconsistent with the region’s special legal and historical status. The party has urged the federal and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa governments to withdraw the proposal, warning that it will launch a public protest campaign if the decision is not reversed.

The announcement was made by ANP Provincial Deputy General Secretary Sikandar Shehzad Khan during a press conference at the Shangla Press Club in Alpuri. Party leaders and workers from across the district attended the event.

ANP Announces Political Alliance Against Tax Proposal

Addressing reporters, Sikandar Shehzad Khan said the ANP would oppose any tax or customs-related measures in Malakand Division through constitutional and democratic means.

He argued that the region’s constitutional and historical status, established during the integration of the former State of Swat into Pakistan, should be respected. According to the ANP leader, any taxation imposed in violation of those protections would be unacceptable.

All Parties Conference and Grand Jirga Planned

The ANP announced that it will convene an All Parties Conference (APC) to discuss the proposed taxation and formulate a joint strategy with other political parties and stakeholders.

The party also confirmed that a Grand National Jirga will be held on July 13 in Chakdara, where political leaders from across Malakand Division are expected to decide on a united course of action.

Criticism of Governance in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

During the press conference, Sikandar Shehzad Khan also criticized the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)-led provincial government, alleging deteriorating law and order, corruption and administrative shortcomings in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

He claimed that Shangla, despite its hydropower resources, continues to face prolonged electricity outages and has not received what he described as its rightful share of hydropower royalties. He also criticized elected representatives for failing to address local development and public service issues.

Support for Peaceful Democratic Protest

The ANP leader said the party supports accountability efforts and peaceful public protests conducted within the framework of the law.

Referring to a recent protest following the death of a local resident at the Karora Hydropower Project, he alleged that protesters faced pressure from the local administration. He maintained that peaceful protest is a constitutional right and reaffirmed the party’s support for lawful democratic movements.

The ANP concluded by reiterating its demand for the immediate withdrawal of the proposed tax measures and called on political parties to work together to protect the constitutional rights and economic interests of the people of Malakand Division.

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