America's Go-To Man In Afghanistan's Oruzgan Province -- L.A. Times
The U.S. relies heavily on warlord turned Police Chief Matiullah Khan. He smiles wryly and dismisses the accusations of corruption and collusion that swirl around him.
TARIN KOWT, Afghanistan — A shy boy with filthy hands and a shabby tunic approached the great man, bowed and tried to kiss his hand.
Gen. Matiullah Khan was seated like a sultan on a cushion in his hojra, his airy receiving room. He barely looked at the boy. He nodded to an aide, who withdrew a thick wad of Pakistani rupees from his pocket and handed it to Matiullah.
The most powerful man in Oruzgan province, a warlord and tribal leader turned police chief, glanced at the cash. Then Matiullah pressed the entire roll into the boy's hand.
"Nobody helps the people; it's up to me," Matiullah said as the boy withdrew.
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My Comment: Afghanistan has always been ruled by warlords .... Gen. Matiullah Khan is just one more of a long line of such men. Sighhh .... so much for the dream of making Afghanistan into a liberal democracy.
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