Need stressed for accelerating peace bid

GARDEZ (PAN): Thousands of people gathered in the Chamkani district of southeastern Paktia province on Tuesday to discuss barriers to the peace process.

Tribal elders from six districts, civil society members, local officials and residents participated in the gathering, where speakers called for accelerating the peace process and development activity.

Peace could not be achieved through pious statements alone, but needed practical measures, said a tribal elder from Dand-i-Patan district, Malik Gul Mohammad, who accusing the High Peace Council of failing to take concrete steps.

He stressed the need for reducing the gap between citizens and the government, eradicating corruption, strengthening of security forces and positively responding to people’s demands.

PHC activities were confined to the capital, while dwellers of remote areas should also be taken on board, suggested another tribal elder, Haji Qayyum, who hit out at the Taliban for killing innocent civilians.

Another elder from Mangal district, Haji Taza Meer, asked the militants to swing behind the peace campaign and quit civilian killings.

Provincial peace committee head, Maulvi Khaliq Dad, said he would convey suggestions of the elders to high-ranking officials of the council.

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