Violence vs. Violence

A Holiday of Contradictions in Afghanistan
By Alissa J. Rubin

To the Editor,

I find it extremely sad and disheartening that the situation in other parts of the world is so desperate that on a national holiday, a day when many in other countries would dedicate time to remembering what happened on that day or celebrating with family and friends, that Afghanistan citizens turn to violence. I think the greatest tragedy surrounding this holiday is that reclaiming the country from the hands of a communist leader became a violent act of men fighting to take control, killing tens of thousands in the process. It is so astounding to observe what lengths people are going to in order to fight for what they believe to be right. In this case, though, it sounds more like a struggle for power and leadership. I find it odd to think of this day as a holiday. While one good thing came from Mohammad Najibullah's removal from the position, it seems as if many more terrible things have spawned because of it.