Gagra, Pakistan
Mayor Jehan's visit to the United States will feature a community engagement and economic development tour of the Jersey Shore, a site visit to Brookdale Community College, and participation in the 2024 New Jersey League of Municipalities Annual Conference. This cultural exchange program will provide an opportunity for him to connect with New Jersey State and local Municipal Officials to discuss cultural, educational, and economic development initiatives and explore collaborative opportunities.
Mayor Syed Salar Jehan, a prominent leader from Gagra, Pakistan, hails from a politically and socially established family in Buner District, known for their unwavering commitment to community welfare. His dedication to public service and the trust he has earned from his constituents reflect his deep-rooted connection to the community.
Syed Salar Jehan received his early education locally before pursuing higher studies in Islamabad, where he earned a Master’s degree in Business Administration. He returned to his hometown in 2009 and embarked on his political career in 2010, driven by a vision to uplift Buner District, which had long been neglected by previous administrations.
His journey into politics was marked by a strong commitment to social initiatives, where he actively served his community before formally entering the political arena. In response to the public’s demand for change, he joined the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party in 2010, at a time when its presence in Buner was minimal. Through his leadership and vision, PTI gained significant traction, culminating in a resounding victory in the 2015 local government elections, where he was elected Tehsil Mayor.
As Mayor, Syed Salar Jehan prioritized key areas such as education, healthcare, forest conservation, climate adaptation, and environmental protection. His expansion of the Billion Tree Tsunami Project (BTAP) led to the planting of millions of trees, reinforcing his commitment to sustainability. Additionally, he focused on providing clean water, restoring sports facilities, fostering youth development, and improving infrastructure, which resulted in notable progress in the region.
Recognizing his influence and leadership, PTI’s central leadership appointed him as District President, a role he embraced with determination. His efforts helped PTI secure three out of four seats in the 2018 general elections in Buner. In 2022, despite challenging national conditions, he was re-elected as Tehsil Mayor, further solidifying his legacy of public service.
In addition to his role as Mayor, Syed Salar Jehan serves as an Ambassador for the Global Parliament of Mayors based in The Hague, Netherlands, where he advocates for collaboration and shared solutions to urban challenges on an international scale. His tireless dedication to public welfare continues to earn him the admiration and support of his community, positioning him as an exemplary leader for the future.
EdjohnsonAP