Helmand gathering voices support for security forces

LASHKARGAH (Pajhwok): A gathering involving tribal elders, religious scholars, influential figures and common people on Wednesday appealed to the masses to put their weight behind the government and security forces in bringing peace and stability.

Religious scholar Maulvi Zainullah told the audience that peace and stability could not be brought through military means, which he said effective for a temporary time.

He said if ulema preached the true message of Islam and military personnel adopted Islamic teachings, the security situation would improve a lot.

He said local residents should understand their rights and militants must stop serving outsiders and join the reconciliation process.

Mualvi Zinullah said Pakistani ulema used to praise and defended their corrupt government so the people of Afghanistan should learn from them in developing patriotism and love for the country and security forces.

Another religious scholar Meherdel accused Pakistan of supporting terrorists and said youngsters duped into joining militancy through propaganda should return to the peace process.

Tribal elder Niamatullah Safi said only verbal commitment of support with security forces would not be effective and asked participants of the event to send their sons to the ranks of Afghan security forces.

Civil Society activist Mohammad Qasim Jafari said the civil society movements completely supported the government, security forces.

At the end of the gathering, a resolution was passed in support of security forces.

nh/ma