Avoid meddling in military affairs, politicians told

KABUL (Pajhwok): Acting Defence Minister Asadullah Khalid has called on all politicians to avoid politicising and interference in military affairs.

While introducing Dr. Yasin Zia as his first deputy, Khalid said at a ceremony here on Thursday: “We call on all politicians to avoid politicising the military.”

In a statement Ministry of Defence (MoD), he said: “As we don’t interfere in your affairs, we ask you not to meddle in ours. Please, trust us, We will use all assets to provide security for the upcoming polls.”

Calling Dr. Zia his brother, the minister appreciated his support to him in hospital. “You were there when I was discharged; we have come a long way together … I wish you success,” Khalid added.

Taliban were under intense pressure, the acting minister claimed, believing the militants would come to the negotiating table because of stepped-up operations.

“If they refuse to do so, we will force them to negotiate and we will do everything in our hand for peace with dignity,” the ex-spymaster continued.

Gen. Yasin said: “ANDSF are doing everything possible to meet the commander-in-chief and our people’s desire for peace with dignity.” If peace talks failed, they would follow the terrorists to their last footprint, he promised.

sa/mud