Panjshir Province gets new governor

PANJSHIR PROVINCE, Afghanistan – For the first time since 2005, the Panjshir province welcomed a new governor during a transfer-of-authority ceremony at the Panjshir Provincial Afghan National Police Headquarters, April 26.

Keramuddin Keram officially became the provincial governor, filling a seat that has been empty since late March when Governor Hajji Bahlol departed the position.

The departure of Bahlol wasn’t without political tension in the valley, and the Afghan National Police made their presence known long before the beginning of the TOA. Police lined both sides of the street with helmets donned in the Bazarak District.

Hundreds of Afghans packed the standing-room-only auditorium, and even more stood outside the doors unable to cram into the room. The TOA opened with a prayer that was followed by a speech from Acting Governor Abdul Rahman Kabiri.

Kabiri talked to the crowd about all of the things that have happened in the province during his time as deputy governor to Bahlol. He highlighted many Panjshir PRT projects, and said he is looking forward to a continued positive relationship with the PRT.

When Keram took the microphone to give his first speech as the new governor, he immediately complimented Bahlol for his hard work and dedication to the people of Panjshir.

Keram said he will focus on security, education and healthcare. Part of his education plan is the inclusion of more sports for school kids. Keram, who is also the Director of the Afghanistan Soccer Federation, said it is important to give kids after-school activities.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Curtis Velasquez, Panjshir PRT commander, James DeHart, U.S. State Department and Panjshir PRT director, and Elizabeth Smithwick, U.S. Agency for International Development field officer, were among the small contingent representing the PRT at the event.

Velasquez said he was proud to be part of the TOA ceremony, and it further promotes his stance that Panjshir is the model province highlighting the success of good governance.

“Today was a positive step in the peaceful transition of governorship,” said Velasquez, an Abilene, Kan., native. “Good governance benefits all the people of Panjshir, and the PRT will continue to give its support by partnering with the legitimate government.”

DeHart also said the actions of the PRT will remain constant as the new governor gets involved in day-to-day activities.

“We at the PRT are very interested in supporting the efforts of Governor Keram in the same way we have always supported Panjshir’s appointed and elected officials,” said DeHart.

After the ceremony, Velasquez and DeHart met the new governor for lunch at the Astana Guest House. The PRT commander called the lunch meeting productive.

“After talking with Governor Keram, I can say he’s very excited to work with the PRT,” said Velasquez. “He wants to continue to build on our relationship with the government and the Panjshiris.”

The ceremony and day ended peacefully, perhaps signalling that there can be a smooth transition of power in an Afghan province.