Kabul team in Nangarhar to probe graft, insecurity

JALALABAD (Pajhwok): A powerful delegation from Kabul on Tuesday arrived in eastern Nangarhar province to investigate administrative corruption and identify factors contributing to insecurity.

Led by Interior Minister Noorul Haq Ulumi, the delegation met local officials and residents at a gathering in Jalalabad, the provincial capital.

President Ghani directed the delegation two weeks ago during a video conference with provincial governors of eastern provinces to investigate problems in these provinces and find solution to them.

Wolesi Jirga member from Nangarhar Haji Hazrat Ali told the gathering that security in the province was not good. He said provincial departments were rife with corruption and the governance was plagued by numerous problems, which needed to be addressed.

His colleague Haji Abdul Zahir Qadir said: “The (unity) government did not give representation to eastern provinces against their expectations. I hope this problem will be paid attention.”

The lawmaker said the delegation from the Presidential Palace should investigate reasons behind insecurity in Nangarhar, but the probe should follow extensive reforms.

Tribal elder Haji Sohail Khan said the security situation in Nangarhar had deteriorated as compared to the past. He said large swaths of land had been grabbed in Nangarhar, where mafia gangs ruled amid increasing incidents of kidnappings for ransom.

He urged the visiting delegation to serious investigate into these issues and find solution to them on a permanent basis.

Another tribal elder Malak Jehanzeb Momand also said kidnappings had increased in Nangarhar and police had failed to prevent them. He said most of the district chiefs were illiterate and should be replaced.

Interior Minister Noorul Haq Ulumi said all required measures would be taken to resolve the existing problems.

“We understand problems exist here, but you must trust the government. We will find solution to these problems and I hope people will cooperate with the government,” the minister said.

After the gathering, the delegation visited several provincial departments and held meetings with officials, civil society activists and politicians. The delegation is expected to remain in Nangarhar for some days.

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