Sayyaf became head of consultative Loya Jirga

The consultative peace Jirga (Grand Assembly) kicked off earlier today with the organizers of the Jirga saying around 3,200 representatives from across the country have participated in the gathering to discuss the future of peace process.

However, most of the prominent political leaders and figures have boycotted the peace Jirga.

In the meantime, President Ghani said the Jirga has been convened to specify the framework for peace and reconciliation with Taliban.

President Ghani further added that the participants of the Jirga will define peace process and discuss ways to achieve peace, emphasizing that the peace process should be Afghan-led.

Pointing towards Fatwa (ruling) of the Islamic scholars of Afghanistan and other Islamic nations, President Ghani emphasized that the ongoing war in the country has no religious basis.

President Ghani also urged the participants of the Jirga to openly speak regarding peace process as he promised that the government will consider the views of Jirga participants in its policies.