Amid heightened security measures about 3,000 scholars, tribal elders and influential figures will attend the Loya Jirga, a grand moot on today. Delegates have arrived at the venue, a first since Taliban took over the country following US withdrawal from the region.
According to Tolo News Islamic Emirate is holding the gathering in Kabul instead of Kandahar.
“This gathering is held in order to appoint their leader and show their allegiance to their leader, and for national or international legitimacy,” said Haji Abdul Zahir Sark, a researcher.
Kabul has come under a security blanket and all roads to the “loya jirga” have been closed, with new check posts. The area and vicinity is being closely watched by Taliban intelligence officials and policemen.
According to officials in Kabul, there is a perception that ‘those still not recognizing IEA might try to derail the event’.
“This will be a grand show of national unity and legitimacy for the IEA and that is a problem for many around the Afghanistan. We need to look at this event from a geo strategic importance,” official was quoted.
While ISIS has been trying to create fissures and disturbance in the region, IEA has said that they will be able to deal with any situation and wipe them out.
Afghan government spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid told a news conference in Kabul that ‘declaration would be announced at the end of the meeting that could last for three days.
Two scholars and tribal elders were invited from every district and a similar number of people were also invited from major cities.
