Helmand, Khost residents mourn ANA deaths

LASHKARGAH/KHOST CITY (Pajhwok): Residents of southeastern Khost and southern Helmand provinces on Thursday held gatherings to pay tribute to the 21 Afghan National Army (ANA) troops killed during Sunday’s Taliban attack in eastern Kunar province.

The gathering in Helmand was also addressed by Governor Mohammad Naeem, who announced all provincial government officials would give their one day salary to families of the slain soldiers in a mark of solidarity.

“Helmand residents condemn the incident and government officials will give their one day salary to the fallen troops’ families,” he said, adding the money would be collected by a commission to be appointed in this regard.

Information and Culture Director Alishah told the gathering Afghans valued the sacrifices rendered by the ANA service members in the country’s defence.

In Khost, a gathering condemned the attack on ANA forces and paid rich tributes to the martyred soldiers.

A statement from the governor’s house said provincial officials, residents and influential individuals took part in the memorial service.

Khost Ulema Shah Mohammad told the gathering the Kunar incident could not weaken the morality of the nation. He said the incident showed Afghans were always ready to protect their motherland from the enemies.

He asked religious scholars to condemn all incidents threatening peace and stability in the country and damaging the reputation of Islam.

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