ISLAMABAD – The Quetta Shura section of Taliban has reportedly relocated itself to Afghanistan for establishing a permanent residence in the area.
According to the details, Quetta Shura , that allegedly operated in Pakistan for over a decade has finally moved back to Afghanistan although its still oblivious as to where they have moved.
The Taliban leaders have been in different cities in Pakistan including Quetta, Karachi and Peshawar ever since they were ousted in 2001 and the news of their relocation could be dubbed as a sign of the Taliban’s confidence in their fight against the US-backed government in Kabul.
‘The leadership shura, or council, relocated to Afghanistan ‘some months ago’ although he would not say to where’ confirmed Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid.
According to sources Taliban have chosen southern Helmand as their site for relocation this time where most of the opium that funds their operations is produced.
On the other hand, Afghanistan’s president Ashraf Ghani has yet to confirm or deny the news confirming Taliban’s distancing themselves from Pakistan.
A senior Taliban commander, Asad Afghan, told The Associated Press the move would consolidate the insurgents’ military gains and help lay the ground for a dominant position if and when peace talks resume.
“We are in the last stages of war and are moving forward,” said Afghan, who is closely involved in formulating the insurgents’ war strategy.
“We are the real government in Afghanistan,” he said. The move across the border would give the movement “more focus” at a time it needs to be “quick, clear and more secure about our decisions.”
