Abdullah Abdullah, the chairman of the High Council for National Reconciliation, on Monday issued a statement opposing President Ashraf Ghani’s decree officially listing members of the council, saying that according to the political agreement it is the authority of the head of the council to appoint its members.

Abdullah quoted the agreement signed in May, saying: “The head of the High Council of National Reconciliation forms the council in consultation with the president, sides and political leaders, speakers of the houses of parliament, the civil society and elites of the country.”

Therefore, Abdullah said, there is no need for a presidential decree on the formation of the council, and the selection of members falls under the authority of the head of the High Council for National Reconciliation.

He said the council's structure should be inclusive and represent the nation, and that consultation with political-civil movements has already begun.

In this episode host Yaser Abrar discusses the topic with the following guests:

Saddiq Baqiri, second VP’s adviser

Painda Mohammad Hekmat, close ally to Abdullah Abdullah

Zia Rafat, university lecturer