U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown says Afghan political corruption at the top must stop

U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown said political corruption in Afghanistan, “particularly at the top,” must stop.

Speaking to reporters today from Islamabad, Pakistan, Brown said his Saturday and Sunday visit to Afghanistan, including spending time with Hamid Karzai, that country’s president, was an eye-opener.

Brown, a Democrat from Avon, was sharp in his criticism of Karzai, saying, “There is much evidence of corruption at the top of government.” Brown specifically mentioned Karzai releasing convicted drug dealers and not doing what is needed to stop that nation’s drug trade.

“No question Karzai is involved” in political corruption, Brown said.

Afghanistan had its national election last week, with many accusations of voter fraud and threats against those casting ballots, Brown said. The results aren’t finalized.

Brown joined U.S. Sen. Bob Casey Jr., a Democrat from Pennsylvania, and U.S. Rep. Zack Space of Dover, Ohio, D-18th, on the trip that included a visit today to Pakistan. The delegation leaves Tuesday.

Steps to bring democracy to Afghanistan must be made, Brown said.

“We made it very clear to Afghanistan that America’s patience won’t last forever,” he said. “They need to make progress.”

For the complete story, read Tuesday’s Vindicator and Vindy.com