September 21, 2015, Peshawar: The Center for Research and Security Studies’ (CRSS) flagship radio program Sabawoon (Dawn), on Monday, focused on sensitization and awareness regarding the constitutional future of the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA). Key points of discussion included a) the merger of FATA with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), b) an independent FATA province, and c) the bill tabled by National Assembly lawmakers representing FATA for the region’s constitutional rights.

The program was aired under the theme “Jarga Marraka” (public dialogue). Mr. Kareem Mehsud, FATA issues expert and former judge of FATA Tribunal, Mr. Ijaz Momand, Former President of FATA Lawyer Forum, and Farhad Afridi, a KP-based lawyer, participated in the program as studio guests. Views of the residents of FATA regarding possible solutions for this issue were also included in the program in the form of a field report from Kurram Agency.

Nine callers participated in the show and stressed on the merger of FATA with KP because both FATA and KP are inter-related and it would be hard for FATA to manage as an independent province. Some callers suggested that the merging of FATA with KP will boost the economy, and will bring peace in the area.

“For decades, FATA has been without its constitutional rights; as a result we have the gifts of Talibanization and conflicts in the area. An independent province will maintain the identity of tribal-hood and will help establish peace, build the economy and improve development in the area”. – Mr. Kareem Mehsud, FATA issues expert and former judge of FATA Tribunal

“For the very first time, FATAs’ MNAs tabled a bill for the constitutional rights of FATA. If we are successful in getting constitutional rights for FATA, it would be a great success in the history of FATA. FATA should be an independent province, because KP is unable to handle their own problems. How will they overcome our problems?” – Mr. Ijaz Momand, Former President of FATA Lawyer Forum