Current Projects
CHINA WATCH [April 18-24]
THE TRIANGLE REVISITED: INDIA OPPOSES CHINA-PAKISTAN ECONOMIC CORRIDOR (CPEC) A former Indian national security advisor has raised serious questions and concerns about the CPEC. Pakistan’ Ministry of Finance has asserted that tax exemptions provided to Chinese entities under CPEC will have no adverse impacts on the local industries and investors. China’s deputy chief of mission to Islamabad has revealed that the CPEC was at the take-off stage. India Opposes CPEC Openly: At times when China is working diligently for the success of an international summit on its New Silk Road project to be held next month in Beijing,[i] its strategic rival India has resorted to the rhetoric of objection and disapproval. In fact Beijing is so much keen on this summit that it has tried to bring the top leaders of all its close partners and important countries to the conference. For example, Foreign Minister Wang Yi announced that Russian President Vladimir Putin, Pakistani Prime Minster (PM) Nawaz Sharif, Cambodian PM Hun Sen, Myanmar’s Aung San Suu Kyi, Kazakhstan President Sultan Nazarbayev, Malaysian PM Najib Razak and the Indonesian Presient Jokko Widodo were all going to attend the conference. However, there is a major exception to all this diplomatic hustle: India’s opposition to the CPEC. India maintains that CPEC not only passes through territory which belongs to former but also poses a strategic challenge to the country. While trying to assuage India’s concerns about the CPEC, Mr. Wang said that “[A]s for disputes in Kashmir, China’s position has remained unchanged. The CPEC has no relationship with the dispute in certain regions. I want to reaffirm this to our Indian friends.”[ii] He added that “[C]ertain sections of the CPEC have raised concerns on the Indian side but these disputes are not the result of the economic corridor and the economic activities in this region are not the direct result of the CPEC. China has been providing support Pakistan in these areas for many,...
Sabawoon Showcase: April 17, 2017
School Enrollment Campaign in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) The latest episode of Jarga Maraka (debate and council) discussed the significance of the enrollment campaign initiated by government in KP and FATA to increase the children enrollment in primary schools. Under this topic the program discussed the role of teachers, parents, civil society organizations and the education department of KP. Moreover, the program highlighted the importance of education – particularly for girls, result of enrollment surveys undergone by KP government, admission criteria in Government Primary Schools (GPSs) in KP and FATA, demands and problems of teachers. Mr. Jamal Uddin, Focal Person for the Enrollment Campaign, KP, and Mr. Assad Zia, a Peshawar based journalist, were the studio guests in the show. Mr. Jamal Uddin said: “This drive will enroll 0.9 million students in primary schools in KP and 0.4 million in FATA. We have enough capacity in schools for the aforementioned numbers, but sincere efforts are needed on the grounds to make the campaign practicable and impactful.” Mr. Zia said: “Teachers in KP are on strikes as their issues are not resolved yet. If government is sincere in making this campaign impactful, they must take teachers on board and reconstruct the damaged schools as well.” A radio report was made the part of program. The report shed light on the opening ceremony of the campaign in Peshawar and its importance in enhancing the literacy rate. Four callers took part live in the program. They pointed out that unless the damaged schools are not reconstructed and basic facilities are not provided in schools, such campaigns will be useless as ground realities are quite different.” About Sabawoon Sabawoon airs in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA). It is designed to highlight the local issues and promote the fundamental governance values, such as democracy, rule of law, women’s rights,...
Panama and our Morality Crisis
Pakistan’s ruling elite is not known for drawing moral lessons from its experiences. The elite know that its money and muscle can help it find its way through the system with the help of highly-paid barristers on its side. When barristers represent tainted property tycoons only to please their political bosses or when they take up cases only to fatten their bank accounts, one can rest assured that there is little room in the country for principles and morality. Against this context, it should be obvious that the Panama Papers case before the Supreme Court was never just a legal battle. As seen over the course of several months, lawyers defending the ruling party had multiple tricks up their sleeves to drag the proceedings. They even deployed dirty tricks such as the submission before the bench of a letter from a notorious Qatari prince. The case should not be seen as having a political impact either. The divided opposition never represented a real threat to the ruling PML-N. The party’s majority in the Punjab and the National assemblies, won through a politics of patronage mastered over the past three decades, gives the Sharif brothers enough confidence to ignore dissenting voices in and out of the Parliament. What matters most to them is protection of their political empire and business interests. Personal honour and integrity hardly seems to be a concern to them. Yet, the dominant majority of frustrated and helpless Pakistanis still aspire for a society where rule of law can be applied to the mighty as well as the weak. Those of us hoping that the Supreme Court could possibly rattle the consciences of those under question seem to have been proved wrong. Those unending arguments before the Court had essentially stemmed from a crisis of moral integrity ailing our ruling elite. For the elite, what matters is the parliamentary majority alone. Moral authority seems to be of no relevance to them. That is why all hopes and expectations of a consequential judgment in...
Sabawoon Showcase: April 13, 2017
The Significance of a Balanced Nutrition for a Healthy Life The latest episode of Ranra (light) discussed the importance of a balanced diet and proper nutrition for a healthy, creative and safe life. The program discussed points such as malnourishment, the importance of fitness for sound health and the need to establish fitness centers in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), the role of parents for children’s health, courses about nutrition in local educational institutions, intake of proper vitamins and proteins and diseases such as diarrhea, pneumonia, dysentery. Moreover, the program has highlighted the impact of genetically modified foods on health, adulteration in food and its consequences as well as safe drinking water availability. Dr. Jahangir Khalil Khan, a Peshawar based Physician and Member of Health Care Commission, Peshawar, KP, took part as the studio guest in the show. Dr. Khan said: “Malnourishment among women and children is one of the serious issues. Being more vulnerable and susceptible to various acute diseases, particularly children are also exposed to diarrhea, pneumonia, dysentery and other diseases. The role of parents and mass awareness are very important to tackle such issues.” A radio report highlighted the findings of a recent survey, which showed a lack of public awareness about balanced diet and nutrition. Five callers took part live in the program. They urged government and civil society organizations to sensitize public about the benefits of safe drinking water, a balanced diet, proper nutrition intake and hygiene.” About Sabawoon Sabawoon airs in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Federally Administered Tribal Areas. It is designed to highlight the local issues and promote the fundamental governance values, such as democracy, rule of law, women’s rights, and equal citizenry. The show airs Monday through Thursday every week under four themes on FM-101.5 Peshawar and Dera Ismail Khan 711 KHZ from 3:20 PM to 4:00 PM. On Monday, Jarga Marrakka covers current...
Sabawoon Showcase: April 12, 2017
Contribution of Minorities to the Socio-Economic Progress of the Country The latest episode of Jwandai Jazbey (alive spirits) discussed the contributions of minorities in Pakistan’s socio-economic development and challenges faced by them in the society. The rights and roles of minorities, their political leadership skills, education and employment opportunities for minorities in Pakistan were central discussion points of the program. Furthermore, the program reported on governmental support for minorities in Pakistan and their quota system, the role of civil society in enhancing their capacities, the lack of a land record system for minorities in FATA, the inclusion of minorities in political movements, hate literature regarding minorities in curricula and the significance of interfaith harmony and tolerance for a responsible citizenship and prosperity of Pakistan. Mr. Haroon Sarabdiyal, a Peshawar based social activist, took part in the program as the studio guest. Mr. Sarabdiyal said: “The status of minorities in Pakistan is improving day by day. But still there are some issues that can only be eliminated through a continuous sensitization of the public through Friday sermons and hate free curriculum which teach the importance of interfaith harmony and tolerance.” A radio report was part of the program that shared the contributions of minorities in the development of Pakistan since Pakistan’s inception. The report added, that despite their unlimited contribution, minorities in Pakistan are still deprived of their basic legal rights. About Sabawoon Sabawoon airs in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA). It is designed to highlight the local issues and promote the fundamental governance values, such as democracy, rule of law, women’s rights, and equal citizenry. The show airs Monday through Thursday every week under four themes on FM-101.5 Peshawar and Dera Ismail Khan 711 KHZ from 3:20 PM to 4:00 PM. On Monday, Jarga Maraka covers...
Sabawoon Showcase: April 10, 2017
Regional Review on Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) The latest episode of Da Simay Jaaj (regional review) discussed several public issues, such as education, drinking water, sports, roads and infrastructural problems. The program reported on the demands of the students of Kohat University of Science and Technology to the university administration. The students urged during a strike that University has to ensure accreditation by the Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC), since their engineering degrees are otherwise useless when applying for jobs. Moreover, the drinking water shortage of the inhabitants of Charsadda’s MC 1, 3, 4 Union Councils was discussed. A report stated that despites several requests of locals to the administration, the damaged tube wells are still not repaired. Once more, the importance of FATA Super League (FSL) was highlighted, which had engaged youngsters from different regions of FATA in sport. This league is a unique opportunity for interregional youth exchange. The program concluded on the issues faced by residents in Dera Ismail Khan due to the damaged roads and infrastructure in the district. Callers Response: Three callers took part in the program. They urged local government representatives to engage in community development projects as they know about the needs of community members through direct interaction with them. About Sabawoon: Sabawoon airs in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA). It is designed to highlight the local issues and promote the fundamental governance values, such as democracy, rule of law, women’s rights, and equal citizenry. The show airs Monday through Thursday every week under four themes on FM-101.5 Peshawar and Dera Ismail Khan 711 KHZ from 3:20 PM to 4:00 PM. On Monday, Jarga Maraka covers current affairs and important regional issues with an input from government and other senior officials. On Tuesday, Da Simay Jaaj gives...
CHINA WATCH [April 11-17] AFGHAN TALKS
China and Pakistan participated in the fifth round of Russia-sponsored talks on Afghanistan. China handed over third patrol ship to Pakistan for maritime security purposes. Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Reforms Ahsan Iqbal has said that all the proposed nine industrial zone under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) would be completed in a period of two to three years. National Security Advisor Lt-Gen (retd) Nasser Khan Janjua conditioned India’s inclusion in the CPEC to the resolution of Kashmir issue. Talks About Afghanistan: To discuss the possible solutions to the long-drawn Afghan war, the fifth round of Russia-sponsored talks on Afghanistan was held in Moscow on Friday. Twelve countries including Russia, China, Pakistan, Afghanistan, India, Iran and six of the Central Asian countries participated in the conference. Despite the fact that major stake-holders of stability in Afghanistan were present, the huddle was overshadowed by two important developments. First the United States (U.S.) snubbed the invitation for talks saying “[I]t (the talks) seemed to be a unilateral Russian attempt to assert influence in the region that we felt wasn’t constructive at this time.”[i] The conference took place one day after the U.S. dropped the “mother of all bombs” in Afghanistan’s Nangarhar province to target an Islamic State bunker.[ii] Such measures on the part of the U.S. will stoke further skepticism into the minds of Russia, China, Iran and Pakistan who have - at times - seriously questioned Washington's Afghan policies. Maritime Patrol Ship: China handed over a 600-ton patrol ship to Pakistan for maritime security purposes. In fact, the ship is just the third of its kind provided by China and built by China Shipbuilding Trading Company Ltd. and China State Shipbuilding Corporation Xijiang Shipbuilding Co., Ltd.[iii] These ships are key to enhancing collaboration between the two countries on one hand, and on the other, they will play...
Mashal and Impending Challenges
The lynching of the 23 year old Mashal Khan by a raging and reckless mob at the Abdul Wali Khan University, Mardan , triggered an outpour of condemnation and protests, including protestations and warnings by the ruling elites – from the prime minister to the chief justice of the Supreme Court. Quite understandable. PTI Chairman Imran Khan took the lead in the condemnation saying the law of the jungle can’t prevail.” Prime Minster Sharif waited for over 36 hours before rejecting “the idea of self-imposed vigilantes and directed action against those found involved in the incident.” ordering police to arrest all those who were responsible. "Let it be known to the perpetrators of this act that the state shall not tolerate citizens taking the law in their own hands," he warned. In a press statement, PPP Chairperson Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said such incidents in universities were a big threat to educational institutions and that the government should take adequate steps to check such incidents in future. PPP Senator Sherry Rehman was moved by Mashal's father's speech on TV and questioned the federal government on maintaining silence over the incident. Bakhtawar Bhutto, daughter of PPP Co-Chairman Asif Ali Zardari, hoped that the accused are tried for murder, saying "no one has right to take a life. Hope the students &police involved are treated like the murderers they are". Some federal ministers including Nisar Ali Khan, Khurram Dastgir and Khaja Asif, too, denounced Mashaal's lynching. Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Mian Saqib Nisar, too joined the bandwagon 48 hours later and instructed the inspector general police of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to submit a report on the incident in the next 36 hours. Mufti Naeem, head of Jamia Binoria, also stepped forward in urging ulema from all sects in the country to unanimously condemn acts of violence originating from the misuse of the blasphemy law. He urged religious scholars to declare "killing an individual over blasphemy...
Sabawoon Showcase: April 9, 2017
Role of Female Local Government Representatives in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) The latest episode of Jarga Maraka (debate and council) discussed the role and importance of female Local Government (LG) representatives for the local development in KP and the problems faced by them. During the program it was discussed, how insufficient funds for developmental work and salaries are affecting the work of the representatives. Moreover, the program shed light on the significance of female LG members in local institutions to speak up for women's issues and representing women in the decision making process. Other points of discussion were the legal, electoral and political reforms in local bodies in KP, the selection of women for reserved seats and political awareness among women. Dr. Bushra Rahim, Deputy Director, Local Government, Peshawar, took part as the studio guest in the show while Ms. Shamim, an LG member from district Swabi shared her views on telephone. Dr. Bushra said: “Women have shown great level of interest in LG elections. Many of them are part of the system which is indeed a positive sign. Even though there are unlimited hurdles, we should strongly encourage women to take part in political and legislation process.” Ms. Shamim said: “There is a dire need to financially support female LG members in the form of daily allowances to cover their travel expenses when attending the Council meeting. Otherwise, their developmental works will be affected.” A radio report was made part of the program. The report shared statistics about the availability of funds for female LG representatives. Five callers took part live in the program. The callers urged the local body and LG representatives to come forward with resolving local disputes. About Sabawoon Sabawoon airs in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA). It is designed to highlight the local issues and promote the fundamental governance values, such as democracy, rule of law,...
Sabawoon Showcase: April 6, 2017
Impact of Militancy and Terrorism on Pashtun Culture The latest episode of Ranra (light) discusses the impact of terrorism, militancy and extremism on Pashtun culture, customs, and traditions. The program discussed topics such as Pashtun history and developments, differences between the cultures within Pakistan, Pashtunwali – the Pashtun code of conduct, unwritten laws and rituals of Pashtuns, customs and traditions, the impact of displacement on culture, difference between culture and civilization, Jirga as a form of alternate dispute resolution, militancy and terrorism in the region and its impact on Pashtun culture. Moreover, the program shed light on the significance of Hujra (community centers) in resolving and discussion local issues. Mr. Zaryab Yousafzai, Ph.D. Scholar and Lecture at Islamia College University, Peshawar, took part as the studio guest in the show. Mr. Yousafzai said: “Pashtunwali is a code of conduct for the community. Pashtuns have a rich culture but unfortunately it is greatly affected by the layer of militancy, terrorism, extremism, and displacement over a decade. A recovery can only be achieved through proper advocacy campaigns and the influence of elders.” A radio report was also made part of the program. The report showed how advancements in information technology and globalization have influenced Pashtun culture and the young generation. Six callers took part in the program. They highlighted the importance of Pashtun norms and traditions and how these customs are celebrated in rural areas. About Sabawoon Sabawoon airs in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA). It is designed to highlight the local issues and promote the fundamental governance values, such as democracy, rule of law, women’s rights, and equal citizenry. The show airs Monday through Thursday every week under four themes on FM-101.5 Peshawar and Dera Ismail Khan 711 KHZ from 3:20 PM to 4:00 PM. On Monday, Jarga Maraka covers current...
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I am also a member of National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Information and Broadcasting. Recently, we held a meeting with the Director General of Radio Pakistan and we told them to initiate such local programs (like Constituency Hour) in regional languages to educate and inform people. Even Indian Radio can be heard in FATA which is being used for propaganda purposes and must be closed. Therefore, we should launch some standard and quality programs like CRSS that will change the taste of the listeners.