The best chance

Afghanistan's budding democracy must not be allowed to dissipate in the bullets of jealous rivalry. The assassination of Vice-President Haji Abdul Qadir reveals feudal thinking persists, but this cannot rob Afghans of the ideals they crave.

Afghans want their country to prosper. The freedoms they enjoyed in the 1960s were taken from them by foreign invaders and warlords seeking riches and power.

The overthrow of the Taliban regime 10 months ago gave the opportunity for a new beginning. The international community has tried to offer the best environment in which this can take root and blossom.

The United Nations ensured compromise so that an interim leader and administration could be chosen. The United States and its allies are ensuring stability and security. Foreign aid agencies are providing food and medicine to the needy.

President Hamid Karzai's interim government was created with more compromise. Qadir's shooting outside his Kabul office reveals those agreements are coming apart.

This cannot be allowed to happen. A proper investigation must be carried out and those behind it brought to justice.

The proper conditions have to exist when Afghans choose their leaders in elections in 18 months. Law and order and security must be Karzai's priorities. With the continued assistance of the international community, a reliable and well-trained security force has to be put in place.

Without these, Afghans will not be able to build the new nation they desire and deserve.

-- South China Morning Post, Hong Kong