Khalilzad’s remarks over Balkh leadership impasse spark reactions

Monitoring Desk

KABUL: The remarks by the former US Ambassador to Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad have attracted mixed reactions regarding the impasse between the government and Jamiat-e-Islami regarding Balkh political leadership. In an exclusive interview with the Arian News, Khalilzad had said that the Afghan government and its international will not have further patience and tolerance regarding Ata Mohammad Noor’s opposition to resolve the issue regarding the Balkh leadership.

He also called on politicians of the country to refrain from miscalculations while dealing with the national issues, insisting that the international community will not allow the small issues to turn violent and further increase deadlock. However, a member of the Jamiat-e-Islami Noor Rahman Akhlaqi in reaction to Khalilzad’s remarks accused him of the current crisis in the country.

In a statement posted online in reaction to the ex-Ambassador’s remarks, Akhalaqi accused Khalilzad of misusing his authorities while serving as US Ambassador to Afghanistan. Akhlaqi further added that Khalilzad’s steps resulted into the wrongful interferences of President George Bush in the establishment of the political system of the country that resulted into the chaos and return of the terror groups.

The remarks and ongoing impasse have also attracted the reactions of the people and activists on social media who are mainly concerned regarding the situation. Certain social media users and activists believe that the remarks of Khalilzad could possibly reflect the stance of Washington regarding the political deadlock between Kabul and Balkh.

The White House said in a statement said Wednesday “The White House has been closely following the current dispute over the governorship of Afghanistan’s Balkh Province. The United States calls on the parties involved to quickly and peacefully resolve this dispute over the transfer of authority to a new governor. The continued impasse benefits only terrorists and Afghanistan’s adversaries.” The statement further added “We believe that this dispute should be resolved in a way that gives Afghan citizens confidence that the appointment of a new governor strengthens security and the Government of National Unity’s ability to fulfill its obligations to them. There is no space for violence in resolving this matter – or for any party to delay a resolution by putting their own interests before those of Afghanistan.”

“This is an issue for Afghans to decide within the framework of their constitution, and in accordance with the rule of law and the principle of equality before the law,” White House said.