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The All Parties Conference (APC) convened by Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on September 9, 2013 to discuss the national security crisis, called upon the Federal Government to initiate the dialogue with all stakeholders to bring peace in Pakistan. The APC authorized the Federal Government to take all necessary steps, including development of an appropriate mechanism and identification of interlocutors.
The APC decisions though harbinger a process of consultations, yet an unending debate, between those who consider talks with Taliban a ‘surrender’ and those who deem it a right step in the right direction, has ensued. In the following paragraphs, various dimensions of the decisions taken by the APC have been discussed.
To start with, it was not the first APC convened for devising policies to restoring peace in Pakistan. Previously, at least, at six different times such exercises have been conducted; JUI (F) convened an APC on February 28, 2013; ANP on February 14, 2013; the Joint Sitting of Parliament on April 12, 2012; a conference of the leaders of all political parties, convened by then Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gillani, on September 29, 2011; Joint Sitting of Parliament on May 14, 2011; Parliamentary Committee on National Security (PCNS) in April 2009; an in-camera Joint Sitting of Parliament on October 22, 2008. However, never has been such consensus and unanimity of thoughts among the participants as witnessed on September 9. This APC is the first where the political and military leadership of the country was on same page.
Challenges
It is nave to think that such a process will be free of all challenges. The mistrust on both sides, the ruthless killings of civilians and soldiers across the country during the last 10-12 years and unseen fears always suggest that to hold dialogue, see their success and then ultimate restoration of peace in Pakistan will not be an easy task. But, the dialogue process faces apparently insurmountable challenges even before it could kick off.
Major Gen Sanaullah’s killing!
The ink of the APC Declaration wasn’t dried yet that GOC Swat Major Gen Sanaullah Niazi, along with two military personnel, was assassinated in Upper Dir. Major Gen Sanaullah had set many examples of bravery and courage; he visited last check post at the border, spent time with the soldiers at the height of more than 10,000 feet to encourage them and did not waste time on the pretext of non-availability of helicopter to fly back.
As he was coming back by road, he was assassinated. The TTP did not waste time in claiming the responsibility. The military is naturally shocked; the government perturbed and anti-dialogue forces are encouraged to propagate their perspective. The unfortunate killing of high profile military officer has even changed the narrative. Many are now questioning as to why dialogue is imperative with those who are killing defenders of Pakistan?
Whom to Talk?
The consensus for talks at the APC notwithstanding, there is a serious question being asked that with whom the talks are to be held. The Taliban are not a single entity. Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) could be an entity comprising many groups but still it is not the only outfit. Taliban of Swat, led by Maulana Fazalullah, who are fighting against the state of Pakistan from the Afghan provinces of Kunar and Nuristan are quite independent of the TTP. For the sake of argument, how can one presume that group led by deceased commander Tariq of Dara Adam Khel will follow the decisions taken by TTP leadership hiding in North Waziristan?
Guarantors
The question of credible guarantors is equally important for sustainability of a dialogue as well as its outcome. The Taliban have proposed leadership of PML-N, JI and PTI when they offered dialogue during the PPPP-regime. Now that PML-N and PTI as well as JI are sitting in the governments at the centre as well as in KPK, and are going to hold the talks, would the Taliban trust them or would they call for some other guarantors. The former coalition partners like the PPP, ANP and the MQM can hardly be trusted by the Taliban as guarantors as the three parties have faced their wrath in the May 2013 elections.
Conclusion
Pakistan needs an enduring peace. A nuclear power cannot go on with numerous killings every day. If we have to revive the economy, peace ought to be restored at any cost. But, at what cost? Should the State surrender in pursuit of peace or must it establish its writ? The answer is the State must establish its writ irrespective of the consequences. Equally important is adoption of a zero tolerance to terrorism. The PML-N government needs to understand that TTP and the other groups have to be dealt with iron hand. The APC has rightly recommended that guiding principles (for dialogue) should include respect for local customs and traditions, values and religious beliefs and the creation of an environment which brings peace and tranquility to the region.
