National Resistance Council Says Taliban’s Limited Political Invitations Won’t Solve Afghanistan’s Crisis

The National Resistance Council for the Salvation of Afghanistan has declared that the ongoing crisis in the country can only be resolved through an inclusive and national political process. Limited invitations by the Taliban administration to certain political figures alone cannot adequately address the current situation.

In a statement released on Friday, April 16, the council emphasized that while any action aimed at reducing tensions can be seen as positive, the crisis in Afghanistan is deep-rooted, national, and multidimensional, requiring a comprehensive solution. The council believes that focusing on contacting a few political figures abroad, without establishing a clear framework and broad participation, will not lead to lasting stability.

The statement further noted that any political process must include the presence and participation of all political factions, tribal elders, elites, opposition forces, civil society, and other sections of society. The National Resistance Council added that if the Taliban administration is genuinely seeking to resolve the country’s fundamental problems, it must create conditions for meaningful and inclusive dialogue where all parties can freely express their views.

The council identified the establishment of a legitimate political system based on the will of the people, holding general elections, guaranteeing the activity of political parties, and securing basic rights of citizens, especially women, as the main pillars of any dialogue. These issues have been among the primary criticisms of the Taliban administration’s performance over the past four years.

The National Resistance Council also expressed its readiness to participate in a negotiation process with the Taliban administration under the supervision and facilitation of the United Nations and regional and global countries, aiming to achieve lasting peace and a comprehensive political agreement.

This statement was issued following news from Shahabuddin Delawar, head of the Taliban administration’s contact commission with Afghanistan’s political figures, announcing invitations extended to Abdul Rab Rasul Sayyaf, Muhammad Mohaqiq, Abdul Rashid Dostum, and several other political figures to return to the country.