Current Projects
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...
Sabawoon Showcase: April 5, 2017
Role of Information Technology (IT) in Generating Employment Opportunities The latest episode of Jarga Maraka (debate and council) discussed the significant role of IT in creating employment opportunities and debated online work opportunities. The central points of discussion were how female IT experts can benefit from free-lancing, online work opportunities and distance work prospects in Pashtun male dominant society. Moreover, the program discussed IT courses offered by universities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), scholarships and internships availability for women in the field of IT, women empowerment through education and employment, entrepreneurship as a chance for women, prospects in the field of IT for youngsters and women, business opportunities in social media and social media advertising. Furthermore, the program introduced a woman from Swat who is successful in the field of IT. Mr. Zafar Iqbal, an entrepreneur and IT expert from Peshawar, took part as the studio guest in the show. Mr. Iqbal said: “IT is playing an enormous role in generating employment opportunities. There are plenty of ways to work from home, starting your own online business or marketing others businesses at a very low investment. Additionally, KP's government provides several opportunities for female IT professionals to take root in this field.” A radio report was made part of the program. The report accentuated the story of Ms. Tahira, a 17 years old girl from Swat, who despite several challenges received the honor of Youngest IT Expert of the Year award from TechJuijce Company in Swat. Two callers took part live in the program. They emphasized the IT education and its importance in the modern era. The caller urged government to provide IT short course in rural areas for economic development. 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,...
Sabawoon Showcase: April 4, 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 sports, agriculture, terrorism and militancy, the lack of funds for the municipal committee and FATA Super League Tournament. The program reported on the initiation of FATA Super League Tournament in Khyber Agency. This tournament was initiated by Khyber Cricket Association and a total of 24 games will take place in different parts of the FATA. The competition was organized to boost the sportsmen spirit among youngster. Over 100 young players took part in the games while more than 1000 local residents attended the event. Another point of discussion was the impact of excessive rain and a hazardous fungus that has hit the wheat crop in the district Charsadda. The report states that 80 percent of the local economy is dependent on the agricultural sector but due to the incompetence of the Agriculture Department and a lack of government interests around 30 percent of the local crops are wasted. Furthermore the program shed light on the aftermaths of a bomb blast that happened a few days back near an Imam Bargh in Kurram Agency. This incident has caused the death of 24 people and left 60 people injured. The program concluded with a discussion about the issues faced by employees of the Municipal Committee Kohat. Due to a lack of funds no salaries have been paid since two months. The employees are now protesting against the committee and staying absent from their offices. Callers Response: Four callers took part in the program. They stated that sport is an important component of life and such events should be organized in different parts of KP and FATA to promote peace, tolerance for diversity and resolve conflicts. 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...
Fixing The Leaky Tax System
Criticism is growing over the government failure to stem terror financing. Apart from freezing or blocking a few thousand bank accounts with insignificant amounts of cash, the campaign to control financing of militant and terrorists outfits — a stated objective of the National Action Plan — has not truly taken off. Often knee-jerk reactions to such issues leads to inconvenience even to innocent people just because the moves are not well-thought through. In a country where the will to realistic and voluntary documentation is still missing and the Federal Board of Revenue continues to act as a highly extractive/ arm-twisting institution — largely to the benefit of its own officials, there is little hope that officials will clamp down and squeeze informal sources of funding of religious and militant outfits. The same applies to officials who have failed to improve the oppressive taxation regime which often coerces most businessmen and regular taxpayers into settlements that get the state hardly one-third of revenue. The rest goes into the pockets of FBR officials. The business community has been screaming about the need to simplify the taxation regime. At a recent interaction among leading businessmen at the Islamabad Chambers of Commerce and Industries almost all participants demanded the abolition of the exploitative rebate system. Why not have a zero-tax-zero rebate regime? Most businessmen called most of the FBR officials as rent-seekers, who are mostly interested in enriching themselves through coercive measures. A major point of convergence related to the taxes on imports and the malaise of under-invoicing. Why do the importers under-invoice? Because of an illogical and irrational taxation regime. The finance minister, many participants argued, is well aware of the flaws of the system, as well as the propensity of business and officials to dodge the system. One industrialist pointed out that the new powers accorded to the FBR officials for determining and...
Sabawoon Showcase: April 3,2017
Census in Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) and Prevailing Issues The latest episode of Jarga Maraka (debate and council) discussed the current status of census, its importance for the inhabitants of FATA and the issues faced by public due to the displacement and return process. The program discussed topics such as the FATA reforms and the progress made by the reform committees to date, the strengthening of judiciary and the referendum in FATA, displacement due to terrorism, registration hubs in urban areas, the security situation, the infrastructural destruction caused by the war against terror in FATA and problems with which local residents are confronted due to damaged houses, food shortage and unavailability of transport facilities, rehabilitation of IDPs and the importance of census for FATA’s social and economic development. Moreover, the program shed light on the work of census teams and the problems they are facing. Hajji Iqbal Afridi, Member of Central Executive Committee, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, Peshawar, and Mr. Safdar Dawar, senior journalist and analyst, Peshawar, took part as the studio guests in the show. Mr. Afridi said: “The residents of FATA are faced with severe issues. Government should focus on merging FATA with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to resolve these problems. Only through the availability of law enforcement agencies the census will be effective.” Mr. Dawar said: “Census is crucial for determining the entitled resources according to the population of a region, which is of utmost importance for the development of FATA. If this whole process is not completed professionally, FATA will face another tragedy after the emergence of Taliban and militants in the region from which they have hardly recovered.” A radio report, which was made part of the program echoed the progress of the census teams and complains of residents. The report stated a resident’s comment: “There is no specific section for people whose houses have been completely...
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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.