H.Con.Res. 414 (106th): Relating to the reestablishment of representative government in Afghanistan.

HCON 414 EH

Whereas Afghanistan has existed as a sovereign nation since 1747, maintaining its independence, neutrality, and dignity;

Whereas Afghanistan had maintained its own decisionmaking through a traditional process called a ‘Loya Jirgah’, or Grand Assembly, by selecting, respecting, and following the decisions of their leaders;

Whereas recently warlords, factional leaders, and foreign regimes have laid siege to Afghanistan, leaving the landscape littered with landmines, making the most fundamental activities dangerous;

Whereas in recent years, and especially since the Taliban came to power in 1996, Afghanistan has become a haven for terrorist activity, has produced most of the world’s opium supply, and has become infamous for its human rights abuses, particularly abuses against women and children;

Whereas the former King of Afghanistan, Mohammed Zahir Shah, ruled the country peacefully for 40 years, and after years in exile retains his popularity and support; and

Whereas former King Mohammed Zahir Shah plans to convene an emergency ‘Loya Jirgah’ to reestablish a stable government, with no desire to regain power or reestablish a monarchy, and the Department of State supports such ongoing efforts: Now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the House of Representatives (the Senate concurring), That the United States--

(1) supports democratic efforts that respect the human and political rights of all ethnic and religious groups in Afghanistan, including the effort to establish a ‘Loya Jirgah’ process that would lead to the people of Afghanistan determining their own destiny through a democratic process and free and fair elections; and

(2) supports the continuing efforts of former King Mohammed Zahir Shah and other responsible parties searching for peace to convene a Loya Jirgah--

(A) to reestablish a representative government in Afghanistan that respects the rights of all ethnic groups, including the right to govern their own affairs through inclusive institution building and a democratic process;

(B) to bring freedom, peace, and stability to Afghanistan; and

(C) to end terrorist activities, illicit drug production, and human rights abuses in Afghanistan.

Passed the House of Representatives October 24, 2000.

Attest:

Clerk.

Relating to the reestablishment of representative government in Afghanistan.

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