KABUL (SW): The Hezb-e-Islami party led by Gulbudin Hekmatyar has made it clear its leader would return to Kabul regardless of the decision in his regard by the United Nations Security Council.
Some media reports quoted Russian officials saying Moscow might oppose removing Hekmatyar’s name from the UNSC Black List. Talking to Salam Watandar, Mohammad Nadir, member of the Hezb-e-Islami press team, said Hekmatyar would make an entry in Kabul soon. He expressed optimism about the UNSC lifting sanctions imposed on Hekmatyar in line with the peace deal inked between the Hezb-e-Islami and the Afghan government. Nadir went on to say Russian diplomats have assured them in meetings that Moscow would support lifting the sanctions.
“In a short period the name of Hezb-e-Islami and its top leaders would be removed from the black list, and the Emir of Hezb-e-Islami [Hekmatyar] would make a public appearance and come to Kabul”, he said. The HI spokesman further said a list of some 2500 prisoners associated with their party has been shared with the government, and work is underway to ensure release of these men.
The peace deal, which has paved the way for Hekmatyar’s return was inked on 29th September last year.
Hekmatyar, who has been in self-exile for years now, spoke on the occasion via a video-link from an undisclosed location. Underlining the value of peace in the war-ravaged country, the 69-year old former Mujahedeen leader stressed foreign powers have played no role in this landmark deal. He also urged upon the Taliban to give-up arms and join the peace process.
On his part, President Mohammad Ashraf Ghani said the way forward for the country is to tolerate each other and acknowledge others’ rights and follow the Constitution.
According to the peace deal, the Hezb-e-Islami has vowed to shun violence, cut ties to terrorist organisations and respect the Constitution of Afghanistan. In return, the Afghan government has promised to provide HI leaders with security, freedom for political activities and removal of sanctions.
ENDS
