The Taliban in a statement on Wednesday said that the Afghan government’s move to convene a Loya Jirga about the fate of 400 prisoners has "no legal grounds" and that all factions should avoid creating obstacles in the way of the peace process.

“As Afghanistan is in dire need of peace and intra-Afghan negotiations following the agreement terminating the occupation of Afghanistan, it is imperative that all sides understand the need of this time and refrain from creating obstacles for the present opportunity,” the statement said.

 The statement reads: “That the (Afghan govt) has decided to summon a supposed Loya Jirga under the pretext of deciding the fate of 400 prisoners and could possibly use it as a tool against peace and wishes of the nation, hence, convening such a Jirga before reaching comprehensive peace and political settlement can in no way be representative of the people or hold any legal status because the (Afghan govt) itself is illegitimate."

 “Every decision that opposes Afghan sovereignty, establishment of a complete Islamic system and aspirations of the people will never be acceptable to the Afghan nation,” the statement said.