Hezb-i-Islami Leader: ‘Taliban’s Fight Has No Legitimacy’

Hezb-i-Islami leader, Gulbuddin Hekmatyar says Taliban armed group’s fight against the government has no legitimacy and it has no outcomes except murder and destruction.

Speaking at a gathering in eastern Laghman province on Saturday, Hekmatyar called on the Taliban to stop “illegitimate” and “un-Islamic” fight and respect peace.

“My message to the Taliban is to stop the fight which has nothing except destruction and killing of people. Their [the Taliban] fight has no legitimacy, they must put up their hands to build the country and should seek their goals through peace.”

On his part, former governor of Noristan province said Hekmatyar is an influential figure and can play a significant role in solving the ongoing problems in the country.

“The return of Hekmatyar has a positive impact and can be a message for those of jos supporters who are battling within the Taliban and other groups to put down their arms and join peace process,” said former governor of Noristan, Jamaluddin Bader.

Afghan political analyst, Esmatullah Qani said Hekmatyar can have an effective role to change the ongoing situation in the country and can convince other groups to end fighting.

Currently, there are about 20 insurgent groups that fighting against the government in Afghanistan, now with joining of Hezb-e-Islami group (HIG) the level of conflict and violence is expected to be decreased in the country.

Reported by Rafi Sediqi, Edited by Shakib Mahmud