The pressure is finally building on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for not discussing peace talks with the outlawed TTP in parliament. In the first sign of fissures within the coalition government, the PPP is not pleased that the ceasefire negotiations were bypassed by parliament.
There have been reports that talks were being held with the terror group now based in Afghanistan. A 50-member delegation of tribal elders and politicians even visited Kabul recently for the negotiations, which has the backing of the military. The government has even acknowledged that talks are ongoing and significant progress has been made but further details have not been disclosed.
The TTP sought refuge in Afghanistan after being driven out by the army seven years ago. The Taliban government failed in taking action but agreed to mediate peace talks. Yet, the TTP stepped up attacks against security forces, martyred army personnel, and attacked border posts. The TTP claimed 282 attacks on the Pakistan Army and other law enforcement agencies in 2021. In April this year, the group brazenly attacked an army envoy, martyring seven soldiers.
The talks have also raised concerns over the TTP resurgence, particularly in border areas. This threatens to erase the sacrifices of our valiant armed forces who fought against the terrorists. The TTP should disarm itself and stops attacks before talks can succeed and pardons and releases are given. Pakistan should give an impression of the growing prowess of the militant group.
The TTP also cannot be allowed to return as a result of the negotiations as it would lead to increased attacks in the country. The TTP wants the reversal of merging tribal areas with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa – a demand which is impossible to accept as it was made to empower the areas. Pakistan is already mired in political and economic crises and cannot let the fringe group pressurize the state.
The Afghan Taliban cannot renege on their promises of taking action or condone Afghanistan-based outfits. Pakistan should offer joint operations or intelligence sharing with the Afghan Taliban to prevent the TTP from regaining a foothold and making a comeback. More importantly, the government should discuss the matter in parliament. The peace deal cannot be shrouded in secrecy as it affects regional security.
