Karzai Takes Control

RE: Afghan Leader Is Seen to Flout Influence of U.S. (3/28/10)

To the Editor:
This article by Mark Landler shows that President Karzai is flexing his governance muscles against the United States. After a contested election replete with claims of wrongdoing against Karzai, the United States rescinded its invitation to President Karzai to visit America. In turn, chagrined by the diplomatic rebuff, Karzai retaliated by inviting the Iranian President for a visit to Kabul. Despite its heavy military involvement in the country, the United States politicos need to accept that Karzai is an independent leader, unwilling to succumb to American influence and dictates. The Landler article states that many Afghanis, weary of occupation and resentful of American influence, would like to see the swift and permanent withdrawal of American personnel. With Karzai’s new refusal to conform to suggested American policies, it about time that America began focusing on gaining the support of Afghanis citizens rather than demanding the adoption of its own political agenda.