By Safina Khan | VOA News
LONDON: Chairman of the Global Pak Kashmir Supreme Council, Raja Sikander Khan, has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Ch. Tariq Farooq on assuming the responsibilities of Speaker of the Azad Jammu & Kashmir Legislative Assembly and Acting President of Azad Jammu & Kashmir.
In his message, Raja Sikander Khan described the appointment as a significant responsibility at a crucial juncture for Azad Jammu & Kashmir, saying the new role carries with it the hopes and aspirations of the people of the region.
He expressed confidence that Ch. Tariq Farooq’s political experience, maturity and commitment to public service would enable him to discharge his constitutional responsibilities with dignity, wisdom and distinction.
Raja Sikander Khan also prayed for divine guidance, wisdom, courage and foresight for the newly appointed office-holder, stressing the importance of protecting democratic institutions, upholding the rule of law and serving the people with fairness, sincerity and dedication.
He said the current situation in AJK requires statesmanship rather than political division, dialogue rather than confrontation, and unity rather than differences. He called upon political parties, elected representatives, civil society and community leaders to work together in the wider public interest and place the peace, dignity and prosperity of the people above political considerations.
Call for Dialogue with Awami Action Committee
Raja Sikander Khan also called for meaningful and sustained engagement with the Awami Action Committee, maintaining that legitimate public concerns should be heard respectfully and addressed through dialogue and democratic means.
He stressed that rebuilding public confidence and strengthening mutual trust would be essential for achieving lasting political stability and progress in Azad Jammu & Kashmir.
According to Raja Sikander Khan, the new government should make peace, law and order, protection of citizens’ fundamental rights, dignity and good governance among its foremost priorities.
He expressed hope that the new leadership would rise to the challenges facing AJK and provide a government focused on justice, accountability, compassion and effective public service.
Raja Sikander Khan concluded his message by extending his warmest congratulations and prayers to Ch. Tariq Farooq, describing his new position not merely as an honour but as a solemn constitutional trust entrusted to him by the people and institutions of Azad Jammu & Kashmir.
He prayed that Almighty Allah guide Ch. Tariq Farooq in his decisions, strengthen him in facing challenges and bless his tenure with peace, unity, progress and prosperity for the people of Azad Jammu & Kashmir.
