PESHAWAR: Elders of the Bostikhel tribe on Sunday said they would not postpone a scheduled meeting to renew the agreement with a coal company operating in Dara Adamkhel. Speaking at a press conference at the Peshawar Press Club, Malik Hiwa Khan accused certain elements of attempting to delay the meeting.
He said certain elements were out to create obstacles for the signing of the agreement, adding that they would not succeed in their efforts.
He added that majority of the Bostikhel tribe members were satisfied with the work of the company and supported renewing the agreement, while a small group was attempting to obstruct the process through court cases.
He added that earlier, under court directives, a meeting was held in which a two-thirds majority of the tribe voted in favour of the company. However, opposing elements again approached the courts and obtained stay orders to halt the process. He said the matter was later referred to a local jirga, which unanimously issued a decision that was accepted and implemented by the tribe and its leadership. Malik Hiwa Khan said those who were now leveling allegations had themselves signed the agreement.
He said that, in line with court orders, the district administration has now scheduled another general meeting on May 5 and accused “troublemakers” of using various tactics to disrupt it.
Responding to allegations of financial mismanagement, he said the National Coal Committee and its chairman have ensured transparent handling and distribution of funds, with around Rs80 million distributed among approximately 21,000 tribe members.
