Barrister Muhammad Ali Saif, Advisor to the Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Information, has once again reiterated the need to start a dialogue with Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) as the country reels from a surge in terror attacks.
Saif stated that the recent significant loss of lives on “both sides” should prompt Pakistan to opt for a peaceful way to get out of this mess.
“We must consider the possibility of dialogue if terrorists are willing to renounce terrorism. The situation must be approached realistically. Lives are being lost on both sides, and the only way to halt this is to pursue peaceful means. This does not imply any form of surrender to the terrorists.”
The statement comes a few days after CM KP Ali Amin Gandapur also said that the country needs to open a dialogue with terrorists because “Whatever we have done has gained us nothing.”
The Advisor also revealed that the terrorists are in contact with him, “Members of the TTP have been in contact with me, discussing their issues. At times, when the TTP has issues with the Pakistan army, they communicate it through me.”
Social media reactions were mostly critical of Barrister Saif.
