In his first public comments after he left Afghanistan yesterday (15 August), Ashraf Ghani said that he did so to avoid 'bloodshed' after the Taliban took over Kabul, reports Hindustan Times.
Ghani said, "If left unchecked, countless patriots would be martyred and the city of Kabul would be devastated, resulting in a major humanitarian catastrophe in the six-million-strong city."
Taking to Facebook, Ghani asserted that he faced a "hard choice" between the "armed Taliban" or "leaving the dear country". He added, "The Taliban have won with the judgement of their swords and guns, and are now responsible for the honour, property and self-preservation of their countrymen."
Ghani further added, "They are now facing a new historical test. Either they will preserve the name and honour of Afghanistan or they will give priority to other places and networks."
It should be noted that previously during the peace talks, one of the key demands of the Taliban was Ghani's departure from the helm of affairs. Ghani had not relented then.
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