Khyber Pakhtunkhwa establishes Area Representative and Development Council

The federal government has issued a formal notification establishing the Area Representative and Development Council (ARDC) for 12 districts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The council aims to promote sustainable development, improve governance, and enhance security and citizen protection through local involvement.

Shaukatullah Khan from Bajaur has been appointed as the Chairperson, while Malik Khan Marjan from North Waziristan will serve as the Vice Chairperson. The council consists of 48 local elders and prominent figures selected through consultative jirgas (tribal councils) held in coordination with Deputy Commissioners.

The participating districts include Bajaur, Mohmand, Khyber, Kurram, Orakzai, North Waziristan, South Waziristan Upper, South Waziristan Lower, Bannu, Tank, Lakki Marwat, and Dera Ismail Khan. The initial term for the council members is set for six months.