Friday Pakistan Update

Hardliner clerics across the jurisprudential spectrum in Pakistan issued a powerful fatwa against suicide bombings in the country - a few years ago when a moderate group of ulema had issued a similar edict, they had been roundly condemned by their more conservative colleagues). Almost, ‘as if in exchange’ for the fatwa, the conservative Muttahida Ulema Council asked the government to immediately cease military operations in Bajaur and Swat. While the interior minister, Rehman Malik, welcomed the anti-suicide bombing statement, it is not clear what the government response will be to the other demands made. Some speculate that the government may have induced the ulema meeting in Lahore and could use their demands as an excuse to restart negotiations with militants.  Calls for a ceasefire were also heard from legislators as the debate on the war on terror began  in Pakistan’s parliament following an in-camera briefing by top military officials. Representatives of the PML-N, PML-Q, JUI-F and those from the tribal belt urged an end to the military operations and a start of negotiations. The JUI-F chief is reported to have said: “If America and Afghan President Hamid Karzai can enter into a dialogue with Afghan Taliban through the Saudi government’s good offices, why can’t we do the same with our people.” The Maulana also offered to mediate as the Tehreek-e-Taliban spokesperson demonstrated a willingness to engage in peace talks with the government. While Maulvi Omar refused to lay down arms, citing an increase in US troops in Afghanistan, he offered to set up a shura (consultative) committee to help dislodge foreign militants in the area. In the meantime, the military is preparing to launch another major offensive in Bajaur. If indeed this takes place, it will show a continuing disconnect between various parts of the Pakistani government.