Talks on talks with Taliban have put in the shade other grave public concerns in Afghanistan. The eagerness to embrace President Karzai's upset brothers have caused ignoring serious questions on how extremist ideologists would become aligned with modern values, democratic governance and principles of an open society.
The domestic and international endeavours made to establish democratic institutions, promote democratic ruling and institutionalize open, transparent and elected processes are put at stake because of hysterical moves to appease Taliban, Hezb-i-Islami and Haqqani fighters. Despite repeated challenges posed by militant groups to undermine peaceful attempts being made to end violence here, Afghan government and its international backers strongly believe they will come to negotiations table.
The recent concurrent terrorist attacks in Kabul, Nangarhar, Paktia and Logar by Taliban or Haqqani militants highlighted their ever-resistant intention to underrate importance and necessity of a peaceful approach to the problem here. The spectacular incident could, at least, put up a stronger picture of Taliban's ability in fight against government and international forces. However, Afghan Special Forces' performance against attackers received great public applause.
A number of international think tanks and government officials have warned the current unilateral peace process will remain in vain. It is because Taliban have always looked at the process from an upper position and believes President Karzai's government would ultimately offer them far better incentives or it can be toppled down once NATO force are out.
Having said that the myth of insuperable Taliban has preoccupied domestic and international perceptions about war against terrorism, the process will soon get agitated as troops contributing countries are making unexpected announcements on an earlier withdrawal of their troops. There are strong local hotbeds for reinforcing Talibanization of the country and push back international struggles to plant democracy here.
To avoid return of chaos and disorder, the government obviously requires taking more considerate steps to welcome Taliban. With the red carpet laid for fundamental extremists, the public hope for a developed, prosperous and democrat Afghanistan fades rapidly. In order to materialize the hope for a democratic Afghanistan, government's view of a reformed, moderate Taliban should change. No absolutist ideology will get moderated via power sharing.