Afghan rivals Ashraf Ghani and Abdullah Abdullah sign power-sharing deal
- Afghanistan is currently confronting a rapid spread of the deadly coronavirus and surging militant violence which left dozens dead last week
- The agreement names Abdullah to lead future peace talks with the Taliban, who have already signed a landmark accord with the US
Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and his rival Abdullah Abdullah signed a power-sharing deal on Sunday, ending a bitter months-long feud that plunged the country into political crisis.
“Doctor Abdullah will lead the National Reconciliation High Commission and members of his team will be included in the cabinet,” Sediq Sediqqi, spokesman for Ghani, wrote on Twitter.
Abdullah’s spokesman, Fraidoon Khawzoon, confirmed the deal, saying the agreement ensures Abdullah’s group gets 50 per cent of the cabinet and other provincial governors’ posts.
Abdullah said the deal commits to forming a “more inclusive, accountable and competent administration”.
“It comes at a very difficult time when we face serious threats,” he said on Twitter after signing the deal. “It’s meant to ensure a path to peace, improve governance, protect rights, respect laws and values.”
Khawzoon added that the implementation of the agreement will be monitored by respected political and national figures.