KABUL - Meshrano Jirga or upper house of parliament members, voicing deep concern over escalating insurgency-related violence across the country, on Tuesday asked the government to speed up efforts at stemming the unrest.

Lawmaker Mohammad Daud Hassas from southern Zabul province said insecurity was fast growing in his province and the entire country.

"A policeman was killed in Zabul city few days ago, but no media outlet reported the incident. Only Almighty Allah’s mercy can save us because the government can do nothing,'' he said.

Security officials have been unable to keep themselves secure, how they could protect civilians, asked another lawmaker from western Farah province, Gul Ahmad Azimi. He said security could not be improved until the country got rid of some individuals controlling its entire affairs.

"The country’s fate is given into the hands of few people, who serve as governors today, military and police commanders tomorrow and the next day as ministers,'' he remarked.

Senator Hidayatullah Ahmadzai from central Logar province said the security situation in his province deteriorated fast this year, compared to previous years.

He said roads in some districts had long been closed, but no operation had so far been launched to reopen them. He asked security organs to recruit professional individuals so security-related problems could be resolved.
Bahram Khan Chamkanai, a lawmaker from southeastern Paktika province, claimed five districts in the province were highly volatile, where the Taliban enjoyed people’s support.

Chairman Fazal Hadi Muslimyar stressed the need for people’s cooperation with security departments to overcome the increasing insecurity.

"We are public representatives, we should investigate this issue and support people and security departments to address it,'' he said. Muslimyar asked the insurgents to renounce violence and join the peace process. (Pajhwok)