Afghan Finance Minister accuses MPs of corruption

[unhappycamper]

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/world/afghan-finance-minister-accuses-mps-of-corruption/article11902346/



Afghan Finance Minister accuses MPs of corruption
EMAL HAIDARY
KABUL — Agence France-Presse
Published Monday, May. 13 2013, 9:14 PM EDT
Last updated Monday, May. 13 2013, 9:14 PM EDT

Afghanistan’s Finance Minister, speaking in parliament on Monday, named several lawmakers he said were guilty of corruption, triggering wild cheering and applause during a televised session of the lower house.

Corruption is one of the key challenges facing Afghanistan as it tries to establish a functioning state system before U.S.-led combat troops depart next year. The government of President Hamid Karzai is often accused of failing to tackle the issue.

Omar Zakhilwal, the Canadian-educated minister, launched a passionate defence in the face of attempts to impeach him over separate allegations of nepotism and graft. Instead, he publicly accused powerful MPs of smuggling illegal alcohol, fuel and cars.

One of those he accused, Naeem Lalai from the insurgency-racked Kandahar province, screamed and shouted from his seat as Mr. Zakhilwal delivered an incendiary speech that shocked and delighted many lawmakers.

[Vinnie From Indy]

1. I would be surprised if even 10% of our aid gets past

the Afghani power elite.