RTA & BBC launch Afghanistan political debate show

Radio Television Afghanistan (RTA) joined forces with the BBC to launch a new political debate and discussion show, Open Jirga. The series, which is the first of its kind in Afghanistan, is presented by BBC journalist Daud Junbish.

The show is produced by RTA with the BBC’s service for Afghanistan in Pashto and Dari, and BBC Media Action, the BBC’s international development charity. The show is designed to provide people from across Afghanistan’s diverse communities with a platform to share their opinions with national leaders on the country’s future.

“Afghanistan is undergoing major transitions linked to the drawdown of international forces and the presidential elections in 2014,” says Lutfullah Latif, editor of the BBC’s service for Afghanistan. “Audiences have a lot of questions to ask, and this series of debate shows will provide an opportunity to air their views, hopes and fears.”

Open Jirga first program was broadcast on RTA on Monday 10 December. 

 “This programme is the result of a decade-long aspiration,” says Shirazuddin Siddiqi, BBC Media Action’s Afghanistan Country Director. “It will play an important role in Afghanistan’s media landscape by bringing ordinary Afghans together with state officials.”

Jalal Mahmoodi, deputy Director General at RTA added: “Our country has reached a critical moment in its history. Open Jirga provides our nation with the platform to debate and explore the choices we are faced with”.

Five more episodes tackling issues including the country’s economy will broadcast over the coming months.