UN killings raise Afghan transition fears focus 04/11/2011

UN killings raise Afghan transition fears

focus

04/11/2011
MAZAR-I-SHARIF — Killings of UN staff in one of Afghanistan’s safest cities have raised fears that plans for Afghans to take control of security from Nato troops in three months are being rushed.

The northern city of Mazar-i-Sharif, famed for its opulent “Blue Mosque,” was thrown into turmoil last week when demonstrators took to the streets after Friday prayers to protest the burning of a Koran by an American pastor.

The protests spiralled into the attack on the UN compound in Mazar-i-Sharif, which left seven foreign staff dead.

Although peace has since been restored with stepped up patrols and pleas from local leaders, some residents say the attack leaves them worried that Afghan forces are not ready to take control of security for the city..... MORE

Source:  The Daily Tribune

URL: http://www.tribuneonline.org/commentary/20110411com3.html