KABUL insurgents.
The lower house members stressed the US-Taliban peace deal should be in the interest of Afghanistan and its people.
Following seven rounds of talks between the US and Taliban representatives in the Qatari capital of Doha during the past several months, the parlays have now entered a crucial phase.
Haji Hazrat Ali, a powerful lawmaker from eastern Nangarhar province, told a press conference in Kabul on Friday that the keys of peace were not in the hands of Afghans, but they were in the hands of outsiders.
Without naming any country, Ali said some countries overtly worked for peace in Afghanistan, but covertly they worked for prolonging the conflict.
“Daesh and Lashkar-i-Taiba militant groups have recently intensified their activities in Nangarhar, Kunar and other areas, they have built centers there. These groups are aided by the certain countries,” the MP said.
He said the US and the Taliban should reach a peace deal which could prevent other groups from emerging and taking roots in Afghanistan.
“In order to avoid a heavy price for achieving peace and before intra-Afghan talks begin, government leaders and other elders should sit together and devise a comprehensive plan for lasting peace in the country,” he suggested.
The government recently announced creating a 15-member delegation for holding direct talks with Taliban representatives.
When asked if the government consulted the Parliament with regard to formation of its negotiating team, Hazrat Ali said: “No. The parliament has not been consulted in this regard. However, I can say three members of the parliament will be part of the negotiating team.”
He also urged presidential candidates to maintain coordination among them about the peace process and try to protect Afghanistan’s honor from being harmed.
“Only one person will make it to the presidency, not all candidates, but if the peace process succeeds, it will be a victory for all Afghans.”
Meanwhile, lower house member from Kabul Fida Mohammad Ulfat told Pajhwok Afghan News that peace was every Afghan’s demand and wish.
“Everything has been obscure so far. Wolesi Jirga members don’t have correct information about the peace process. We demand peace which is in the interest of all Afghans.”
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