KUNDUZ - The newly-appointed governor to Kunduz today vowed to bring visible and positive changes to the security situation and accelerate the reconstruction process within two months.

Ghulam Sakhi Baghlani, who replaced Mohammad Anwar Jagdalak, held out the promise while addressing a ceremony organized to welcome him. He was appointed by the Independent Directorate of Local Governance through a presidential decree.

He warned those involved in corruption and misuse of powers should relinquish their illegal activities, otherwise “stern action” would be taken against them.

Referring to the establishment of a complaints department to address people’s problems, he said, “I will bring positive changes in the field of security and reconstruction.”

Abdul Matin Baig, deputy for finance and administration of the Independent Directorate of Local Governance, while reading out the governor’s letter expressed concerns over presence of armed groups in the province, demanding the tribal elders to extend their cooperation to the local government to flush out anti-social elements from the area.

Lauding the role of some officials and district chiefs, he said that all government officials should work diligently to resolve problems of the people.

Asadullah Amarkhel, the Kunduz Peace Committee head, said the presence of armed individuals was a constant source of concern for the people. Local officials say more than 2,000 gunmen are active in Khanabad district.

Source: Pajwhok Afghan News