PESHAWAR, July 3: Delaying the decision to rejoin the Alliance for Restoration of Democracy (ARD), the Awami National Party has set up an eight-member committee comprising senior leaders to decide its future strategy.
A decision to this effect was taken by ANP’s central executive committee in a meeting held here on Thursday to discuss whether or not to rejoin the ARD.
Addressing a press conference following the CEC meeting, ANP chief Asfandyar Wali Khan said that the committee had been constituted to look into the matter and take a final decision over this important issue.
“We have certain reservations and apprehensions, which we want to remove,” said the ANP chief, adding that “ the committee would determine the party’s future line of action after taking stock of the situation”.
The committee would be headed by Mr Asfandyar Wali whereas its members include Haji Ghulam Ahmed Bilour, Ehsan Wayen, Ajmal Khattak, Begum Nasim Wali Khan, Syed Aaqil Shah, Farid Toofan and Zahid Khan — who would also act as the committee’s coordinator.
The committee, Asfandyar said, would shortly establish contacts with the ARD leadership to enter into a formal dialogue in an effort to discuss a possible reunion by sharing ANP leaders’ reservations.
“We have three options to enter into alliance either with the Alliance for Restoration of Democracy, PML(Q) or the MMA, but we would prefer to go with the one which supports provincial autonomy and the rights of the NWFP,” said the ANP chief.
However, he said that ANP could join hands with the Muttahida Majlis-i-Amal only inside the parliament to form joint opposition. “But we can not enter into an alliance with the MMA outside the parliament,” said Asfandyar.
He said the on-going confrontation between the government and opposition could be resolved if both the sides exercised flexibility in their respective stands.
Taking exception to the Punjab government’s recent decision of prohibiting transportation of wheat to other provinces, he said the move would cause bitterness among the federating units.
“Past mistakes are being repeated,” said the Awami National Party chief.