Agencies, Arab News
KABUL, 27 August 2004 — Afghan President Hamid Karzai’s rivals yesterday challenged him to quit the presidential race or face them in a public debate, even as they searched for a viable challenger to unite behind.
Karzai’s opponents believe the odds are unfairly stacked in his favor for an election on Oct. 9 that marks the climax of Afghanistan’s political transition, following the overthrow of the Taleban militia by US-led forces in late 2001.
“Since Karzai is abusing his position of power and monetary resources for the election, I and the council (of opposition candidates) support Karzai’s resignation,” Hamayoun Shah Asifi told a news conference flanked by 14 other challengers or their representatives.
Pedram said among those looking for an alternative to Karzai were the powerful governor of western Herat province, Ismail Khan and Defense Minister Mohammad Qasim Fahim, both of whom are Tajiks, ethnic Uzbek general Abdul Rashid Dostum and Hazara leader Mohammad Mohaqiq.
http://www.aljazeerah.info/News%20archives/2004%20News%... US vigilante says saved Bagram from bomb attack
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.ph... Idema role: rogue or U.S. agent?
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.ph... Rivals Gang Up on Karzai, Seek a Champion
http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=102x783719