Afghan tribal vote seen as stall tactic

Afghanistan has a president and parliament responsible for critical decisions on national security. But President Hamid Karzai, to the consternation of many who consider it a waste of time and money, has convened a traditional tribal gathering to discuss a security deal with the United States.

A loya jirga, or grand council, opens in Kabul today and is likely to paralyze the Afghan capital for five days as about 2,700 delegates from around the country gather to eat, drink and argue inside a tent protected by tight security.

Karzai has said he wants consultation with prominent Afghans, a traditional Afghan means of decision-making. Provincial and district governors appointed by Karzai dominate the roster of proposed loya jirga delegates. Final approval is made by the loya jirga’s 30-member convention commission, appointed by Karzai.

The loya jirga is an advisory body. Parliament has to approve the security pact and can override the delegates’ decision. In any case, Karzai will make the final call. But the president has indicated that he won’t sign without loya jirga approval.

Afghan critics say the loya jirga usurps the authority of the elected parliament. But Afghan analysts and Western diplomats say Karzai wants political cover from the loya jirga.

Los Angeles Times