Awami National Party - Ideology

Ideology

The party espouses an extreme level socialism, and had extremely dense support in the Pashtun dominated population in the country. Although since 2000, its liberal socialism and pro-Pashtun philosophy has became its integral part of the party advocating for the regional autonomy and increased cultural expression, notably the Pashtun culture. A frequent coalition partner in provincial politics, it was routed in the 2002 elections because of its opposition to the Taliban and support for the American war in Afghanistan.

It joined the opposition All Parties Democratic Movement, and along with other party's except the Pakistan Peoples Party resigned from Parliament in October 2007 in protest against the military regime of Pervez Musharraf.

It was targeted in 2007 and 2008 by presumed supporters of the Taliban. Despite the attacks, the party has advocated dialogue with moderate tribal elements to end present violence in the Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Federally Administered Tribal Areas. It has rejected foreign interference in the region whether US or Al-Qaeda. Since the 2008 elections the party has been the principal target of Tehreek-e-Taliban militants with over 100 activists by February 2009 having been assassinated by suicide bombers or in target killings. It has also accused the Pakistani establishment and of being complicit in allowing the growth of the Tehreek-e-Taliban in Pakistan because of its former support for the fighters.