KABUL - President Ashraf Ghani said on Saturday the country was in a critical situation, warning that dropping guard would help the enemies achieve their objectives in Afghanistan.
Addressing an event marking Mujahidin’s 25th Victory Day, the president said the holy warriors had rendered sacrifices for the liberation of Afghanistan and creation of a government that represented the masses.
Mujahidin’s sacrifices should not be forgotten, he said, adding the era of ruling the people by force had come to an end. Those who still insisted on grabbing power had no understanding of Islam and Afghans, he remarked.
Ghani said the people of Afghanistan had always fought against covert and overt enemies, laying down their lives for the greater glory of the country. Bringing improvement to government institutions, particularly the security sector, was shared responsibility, he said.
“We should remember that our current sacrifices are part of the huge price being paid for the independent of the country. Efforts have been made over the past few decades to suppress our nation.”
Ghani hailed the struggle of security forces jihad against terrorism, praising the nation for extending all-out support to their defenders. He hoped the Afghans would emerge victorious in the ongoing war because every Afghan aspired for a peaceful live and a bright future.
“We don’t want the destruction of others; our forces are not intruders. Our nation has no such designs on others. We neither consider any country our strategic depth nor have links with any terrorist group. Bloodshed is not our way of life as we desire peace and the wellbeing for our neighbours.”
Ghani promised the next presidential election would be held on schedule and the Wolesi Jirga polls this year. He said the election commission was an independent body and the government was ready to assist it. (Pajhwok)