Change in FATA: Reforms commission continues consultation

Several consultative sessions have been held by the FATA Reforms commission, says spokesperson from the Governor House

PESHAWAR:

Several consultative sessions have been held by the FATA Reforms commission, said a spokesperson from the Governor House on Thursday. “More of such meetings with the media and youth are on the immediate agenda,” he added.

Headed by former chief secretary Ejaz A Qureshi, the commission has met several stakeholder groups, including the FATA Lawyers Forum, tribal maliks and civil society representatives. Former additional chief secretary Mir Laiq Shah and Mossarat Qadeem are also part of the commission.

Governor Mehtab Abbasi had formed the commission in May and had tasked it to produce a comprehensive report within 10 months to outline policies and specific reforms meant to improve conditions in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas.

As yet, the Frontier Corps inspector general, minister of States and Frontier Regions (SAFRON), secretary SAFRON, adviser to the PM on national security as well as key officials at the FATA Secretariat have been approached for their input.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 5^th, 2014.