President Ashraf Ghani on Thursday afternoon ordered the Special Units of Afghan National Police to shoot anyone who takes up arms against government. 

Addressing an event at the Ministry of Interior Ghani said he has a clear definition of friends and enemies and that anyone who takes up arms against the Afghan government is considered an enemy and should be gunned down. 

“Anyone who takes up arms against the government is an enemy, eradicate them,” Ghani said. 

“I am not one of those types of people who one day calls them friends and the next day enemies. I have a clear definition of the enemy and their actions prove they are enemies.”

Ghani also said security forces and officials should try to prevent civilian casualties and added that the special units play a key role in this regard. 

Referring to the Afghan peace process Ghani said he wants peace from a strong stance and will never beg for it.

“We want peace, but not from a weak stance. Peace can be acquired by your (special units) strengths. In your presence, the government will never beg for peace and we are not in a weak position. We want an honorable peace,” Ghani added. 

Ghani’s remarks come amid accelerated efforts for peace. 

On Wednesday the Moscow talks wrapped up after a two day summit between Afghan politicians and Taliban members. 

Delegates attending the talks also issued a declaration that highlights the agreements between Taliban and Afghan politicians on a number of issues.