Baghlan-i-Markazi residents protest against new mayor

PUL-I-KHUMRI (Pajhwok): Residents of the Baghlan-i-Markazi district of northern Baghlan province on Wednesday protested against the new district mayor and blocked the Kabul-Kunduz highway against traffic.

One of the protestors, Haji Sher Khan, told Pajhwok Afghan News that the governor had appointed a new mayor of his own choice for the Baghla n-i-Markazi district, but he was not acceptable to people.

He said the local governance directorate had introduced an experienced person, Syed Noraq, as mayor, but the governor acting unilaterally appointed a new person on the post.

Another protestor, Gulab, also said the new mayor was not acceptable to them under any circumstances. He said they would wage a protest movement if the mayor was not replaced.

In response, Baghlan Governor Abdul Hai Nimati said protest was people’s right, but problems should not be created for others.

“Faridon has been appointed as new mayor of the Baghlan-i-Markazi district, if people have any problem with him, they should share it with the Independent Directorate of Local Governance and should not close road against people.”

Faridon had previously served as mayor of the Baghlan-i-Markazi district for two years.

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