December 19, 2016, Peshawar: The latest episode of Sabawoon[1], flagship radio program of Center for Research and Security Studies (CRSS), was about FATA reforms and their impacts.
The key discussion points included FATA reforms bill, merger of FATA with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), issues faced by residents due to Frontier Crimes Regulation (FCR), extension of the constitution of Pakistan to FATA, resource mobilization, transparency in the usage of funds by the Political Administration and the role of FATA parliamentarians in the region’s transformation.
The program was aired under the theme of Jarga Marrakka (debate and council) on Thursday. Mr. Rehmat Salam Khattak, a Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PMLN) Parliamentarian from Peshawar, and Mr. Iqbal Afridi, a political activist from Khyber Agency, were the studio guests.
A radio report on the central theme of the program was aired. The report shared the views of people favoring the merger of FATA with KP, concerns of residents against FCR and misuse of resources in the region. Two callers took part live in the program. They urged the government to hold a referendum over the issue of FATA’s merger with the KP and let the tribal people enjoy their basic rights.
Mr. Rehmat Salam Khattak, PMLN Parliamentarian Peshawar, said: “FATA reforms bill has been passed by the National Assembly and it awaits the approval by Senate. This will help administer FATA and enhance peace and prosperity in the region.”
Mr. Iqbal Afridi, political activist, Khyber Agency, said: “The people of FATA have been ignored for decades as they don’t enjoy any constitutional rights. FATA should also be brought within the purview of the constitution of the country.”
Sabawoon airs Monday through Thursday on FM-101.5 Peshawar & DI Khan 711 KHZ from 3:20 PM to 4:00 PM.
[1] Sabawoon is a flagship radio program by CRSS in the KP/FATA region, designed to highlight local issues, and promote fundamental global values such as women’s rights, rule of law, equal citizenry, democracy, governance and accountability. It airs four times a week, under four themes. On Monday, Jarga Marrakka covers current affairs and issues, coupled with government and other senior officials. On Tuesday, Da Semi Jaaj gives a holistic regional overview of the most important stories across the length and breadth of KP/FATA. On Wednesday, Jwandai Jazbey covers issues most important to youth, students and females. Finally, on Thursday, Ranra covers social issues that have a cultural angle and/or impact.