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AROUND THE WORLD 2: Failed Assassination Attempt on Afghani President

Before the U.S. presidential ballot goes out in November, or the Iraqis hold their elections next January, Afghanistan will host its own presidential elections. One of the controversial candidates is current President Hamid Karzai, who survived at least two assassination attempts as of Thursday, September 16. In the latest attempt, attackers fired a rocket at Karzai’s helicopter as it was flying to a city 60 miles south of Kabul, the capital. The rocket missed its target and landed in a nearby village, but it was still only 300-500 yards away from where Karzai’s chopper would have landed.

Three people who might have been involved were promptly arrested. However, the controversy extends throughout the country. Taliban fighters have raged against Karzai’s administration, resulting in the deaths of at least 900 people this year. Interestingly, the opposition does not come from the remnants of the Taliban; it surges more from anger over U.S. policies or opposition to a U.S.-backed government.

Recently, for example, Karzai took a bold move and dismissed a powerful governor of one of Afghanistan’s provinces. The governor was a strong opponent of the Taliban; he was even captured by them at one point and managed to escape. The governor’s dismissal may help Karzai to get broader control over Afghanistan and try to dispel some of the anti-American sentiment there. Some, however, think it might also backfire. The dismissed governor is a very influential figure because of his long presence in the western region. If he declares support of Karzai’s opponent, his opinion could sway many voters.

The Pentagon is soon sending 700 airborne soldiers to Afghanistan to guard against any problems or violence in the upcoming election.

--Written by Kari Elassal

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