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The deal shocked policy makers in the U.S. who have warned that such an agreement could set an alarming precedent and allow the Taliban to re-group and better arm themselves. In fact recent talks between Pakistan and the U.S. have been marked by American political pressure to increase military operations against the insurgency.
According to The Washington Post; Amir Haider Khan Hoti, the chief minister for the North West Frontier Province, said authorities would be imposing Islamic law in the Malakand region of Pakistan, which includes the Swat Valley.
Swat is a one-time tourist haven in the northwest where extremists have gained sway through brutal tactics including beheading residents, burning girl’s schools and attacking security forces.
The chief minister went on to indicate that the change would not violate the constitution, despite its demand of a secular legal system, or damage human rights in the region. Essentially the deal requires the suspension of all laws in the region that do not comply with Islamic texts.
In recent months the area surrounding the Swat valley has seen increased military activity. Since last summer 12,000 government troops have been battling a contingent of 3,000 Taliban fighters in the region. The insurgent fighters have dug in deep in the region, terrorizing the local populace and killing police officials. As a result of the recent talks, the government forces will be switching to a more reactive role in the area and only be retaliating if attacked.
The Swat Taliban group, on their part, stated that they would observe a ten day cease-fire in support of the peace process. Muslim Khan, a spokesman for the group, also stated that the militants would lay down their arms if Islamic law is actually imposed.
By: Alberto Ramos Cordero
Posted February 16th, 2009 by Alberto
