KABUL (SW) – Amid uproar over extravagant expenses for the Loya Jirga, Vice President Amrullah Saleh has said the government pays some AFN 4 billion for the security of key officials.
This comes as the social media has been taken by a storm by the allocation of AFN 330 million for organizing the consultative Loya Jirga for peace on Friday Aug. 07. Responding to this criticism, Saleh said in a statement that the people should instead engage in debate over billions of afghanis spent on the security protocol of key figures, including those who continue to undermine the government and promote personal agenda.
"Consultation with the nation and respect for the nation’s views is more valuable than any price”, he said while defending the government’s move to hold the Loya Jirga.
The Loya Jirga would decide on the fate of remaining 400 Taliban prisoners in connection with the peace deal.
President Mohammad Ashraf Ghani has approved a draft budget of AFN 350 million for holding this grand consultative session of elders and public representatives.
This comes as the Taliban have expressed opposition towards holding this session.
ENDS
