In a released interview of the TTP Chief Mufti Noor Wali, it was revealed that the talks are being led by Gen Faiz Hameed on the Pakistani side, while Mufti Noor is representing the TTP.
When asked by the interviewer about the demands being put forward by both sides, the TTP chief said that out of all the demands, the call for the reversal of FATA’s merger was the most important for the TTP. “We will not be backing down on that front,” he said.
Responding to a question about his satisfaction with the negotiations thus far, Mufti Noor said that while there haven’t been any breakthroughs yet, if the Pakistani government exhibits seriousness, there could be some progress.
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He further added that the role of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan was not just that of a host or a facilitator, but also of a mediator.
The TTP chief said that while it was true that some TTP prisoners have been released, he claimed that many others were still being arrested or raided on. “This non-serious attitude of the Pakistani government can affect negotiations,” he said.
When asked about the Pakistani government’s demand that the TTP accept the Constitution and dissolve itself as a terror organization, the chief was adamant that dissolution was entirely unacceptable to them.
“There are many demands being made in the negotiations. The ones that are reasonable and appropriate can be discussed, and the ones that undermine the status and credibility of the TTP are wholly unacceptable.”