PM Faisal Mumtaz Rathore vows public welfare projects, governance reforms, and political stability
Khaigala: Prime Minister of the Azad Government of the State of Jammu and Kashmir, Faisal Mumtaz Rathore, has said that the massive public turnout in Khaigala has proved that politics is alive and will remain in the hands of elected public representatives. Addressing a large public gathering at Khaigala Higher Secondary School, he stated that although only twenty-two days have passed since the Pakistan Peoples Party government assumed office, a visible change in public confidence and the government’s credibility has already emerged.
The Prime Minister announced a series of development and welfare initiatives for Khaigala and surrounding areas. These include the establishment of an Electricity Sub-Division in Khaigala, restoration of posts in the Town Committee Ali Sojal, construction of the Peer Kot Ringer Nullah Bridge, and immediate restoration of Hasnain Kot Union Council on the instructions of the Commissioner Poonch. He further announced that demands related to schools and colleges would be considered under an education package.
Additional announcements included the construction of a Livestock Department building in Ali Sojal, installation of street lights in Khaigala, continuation of work on the Tarar Khal to Goi Nullah Road, allocation of budget for granting tehsil status to Khaigala, development initiatives for Banjosa Lake, establishment of a Niabat (revenue office) in Khaigala, and construction of the Khaigala–Abbaspur main road.
Prime Minister Faisal Mumtaz Rathore said that since the formation of the Pakistan Peoples Party government, a message of unity and affection has been conveyed from Taobat to Khaigala. He remarked that had the PPP not come into power, the political system in the state could have collapsed, but by the grace of Allah, the party was given the opportunity to preserve the democratic legacy of its predecessors.
He said the public had placed its trust in the government, and the government would honor that trust. He reiterated that implementation of the agreement with the Joint Action Committee was the government’s top priority and that work on the agreement had already begun. He added that the second cabinet committee meeting had resolved several issues and notifications had been issued accordingly.
The Prime Minister emphasized that the government seeks peace in the state and that the voice of the people would be raised in legislative forums. He said the government enjoys the strength of the public mandate and would move forward on that path. He assured that shortcomings would be addressed and the system would be improved.
Highlighting the party’s stance on Kashmir, he said the Pakistan Peoples Party was founded on the Kashmir cause and firmly believes in the right of self-determination for Kashmiris through a plebiscite. He noted that President of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari had described governance as a major responsibility, adding that refusal to form the government could have pushed the state towards unrest. He observed that roads once marked by unrest are now witnessing showers of flowers, reflecting improved stability.
Prime Minister Faisal Mumtaz Rathore stated that government offices and assemblies are now open to the public. He reaffirmed that the bond with Pakistan is rooted in the Kalima and that Pakistan has always honored this relationship. He stressed the need to differentiate between the Pakistan Army and occupying Indian forces, noting that while Pakistan’s armed forces upheld national dignity, Indian forces continue severe repression in occupied Kashmir, which he described as an open prison.
He called for unity, harmony, and shared responsibility, saying that development and progress would only be possible through collective effort. He added that the state would be transformed into a cradle of peace and that employment opportunities would be created for youth to ensure sustainable development.
The gathering was presided over by former Prime Minister of AJK Sardar Tanveer Ilyas Khan. Former President and Prime Minister Sardar Yaqoob Khan, Adviser to the Government Sardar Fahd Yaqoob Khan, Adviser Sardar Ahmad Sagheer, former minister Sardar Abid Hussain Abid, Member Kashmir Council Sardar Adnan Siab, and senior leaders of the Pakistan Peoples Party at central and local levels were also present and addressed the gathering.