Former mujahedeen stage rally in Kabul (in support for amnesty of Aghans suspected of war crimes)

[maddezmom]

KABUL, Afghanistan - Tens of thousands of former mujahedeen, including top government figures, rallied Friday to show support for a proposed amnesty for Afghans suspected of war crimes and some called for the death of those demanding prosecution of warlords who were involved in a quarter-century of fighting.

About 25,000 people, many holding pictures of leaders of the mujahedeen, or holy warriors, flocked to Kabul's National Stadium as thousands of police were deployed throughout the city amid fears of unrest.

"Whoever is against mujahedeen is against Islam and they are the enemies of this country," white-bearded Abdul Rasul Sayyaf, an influential lawmaker and former mujahedeen leader, told the rally.

Later, youths marched through the city, chanting "Death to enemies of Afghanistan!" and "Death to America!" They also shouted "Death to Malalai Joya!" — a female lawmaker who is among the most outspoken critics of Sayyaff and other prominent mujahedeen leaders.

more:http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20070223/ap_on_re_as/afghan_war_crimes

[ck4829]

1. America's allies back in the cold war... America's allies today.

[High Plains]

2. Here's an advisory from the US Embassy in Kabul

Warden Message

February 22, 2007



Public Demonstration - February 23



This notice is to advise American citizens residing or traveling in Afghanistan that a large public demonstration related to proposed amnesty legislation is to take place throughout the city of Kabul on Friday, February 23. This demonstration is predicted to last the entire day. It is expected to be centered at the Ghazi or Olympic Stadium, but has the potential to affect the entire city. Given the unpredictable nature of these events and the potential for civil disorder, all U.S. Embassy personnel will be restricted to the Embassy compound for the duration of this demonstration, except for the most urgent of business.



The Embassy strongly urges American citizens that they should likewise restrict their own travel in Kabul on that day to the most essential business only and to consider the current threat environment when planning any necessary travel around the city. Americans are particularly urged to avoid the area of demonstrations and to exercise caution if within the vicinity of any demonstrations. American citizens are strongly encouraged to maintain a high level of vigilance, be aware of local events, and take the appropriate steps to bolster their personal security. Americans should also be advised that similar, though smaller, demonstrations might occur in other cities in Afghanistan.



The demonstration coincides with the annual Afghan 3rd of Hoot observance, which recalls the 1981 protests in Kabul against the Soviet invasion and occupation. This coincidence will likely contribute to a very large public participation in this event, and may exacerbate the volatility in the behavior of those present.



Americans in Afghanistan are urged to monitor the local news for latest developments, and to maintain contact with the U.S. Embassy in Kabul. As the Embassy continues to receive information on any potential security threats to U.S. citizens in Afghanistan, it will share them with the American community via the Warden System.



As always, the Embassy urges Americans to practice good security measures:



be aware of your surroundings;
vary your times and routes of travel;
avoid traveling after dark;
do not travel alone
avoid crowded areas and demonstrations;
avoid Afghan and international government buildings and compounds;
do not approach any international or local military or government convoys.


Americans in Afghanistan are urged to monitor the local news and maintain contact with the U.S. Embassy in Kabul. As the Embassy continues to develop information on any potential security threats to U.S. citizens in Afghanistan, it will share them with the American community via the Warden System. We take this opportunity to remind the community of the continuing threats outlined in the current Travel Warning for Afghanistan and Worldwide Caution Public Announcement. The full text of each can be found at http://travel.state.gov. Updated information may also be obtained by contacting the American Embassy in Kabul at [e-mail] or by calling the Consular Section on 070-20-1908.



The Department of State also shares information through its consular information program documents, available on the Internet at http://travel.state.gov. In addition to information on the Internet, U.S. travelers may obtain up-to-date information on security conditions by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll-free in the U.S. or outside the U.S. and Canada on a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444.





Sincerely,



Consular Section

U.S. Embassy Kabul