KABUL (Pajhwok): The assembly of former members of parliament on Monday expressed deep concerns over current security situation in the country and stressed the need for the establishment of peace instead of going for elections.
Presidential elections are scheduled for September 28 with 17 candidates have already launched their election campaign across the country. Two days back, sensitive materials had reached to some provinces.
On the other hand, 9th round of US-Taliban talks ended on Sunday but without signing final deal.
Homayun Homyun, the assembly chief, told a press conference in Kabul: “Peace should be given priority, we will be unable to hold country-wide elections, conduct of polls and its result would bring crisis because nation-wide and transparent conduct of election is very difficult in current situation.”
Responding to a question, he said: “We have yet to join a presidential team, because the situation is not suitable for presidential elections and we will decide to support a presidential team appropriate situation is provided with national and international guarantees for free and fair polls.”
He said the assembly of ex-MPs will support any step take for peace and stability but the other sides should renounce violence because the people of Afghanistan rendered sacrifices daily in the ongoing conflict.
About Taliban recent attacks in Kunduz and Baghlan, he said weak management and offering huge importance to the Taliban help incidents of insecurity in the north.
He added the militants had increased violence recently in order to show their power and magnitude.
Mohammad Nazir Ahmadzai, former representative of Kuchi in Wolesi Jirga, said peace remained public priority because the nation was tired of the conflict.
He urged the government; Taliban, politicians and international community to end the 18-year-old conflict in the country and do not oppose peace.
Saleh Mohammad Saljoqi, former representative from Herat people, while referring to recent Taliban attack, said the Taliban could not legitimise their power at the negotiating table by escalating violence.
He called on Taliban and government to halt attacks and operations.
Other members of the assembly expressed similar views and stressed the need for peace instead of election.
Sa/nh