Karzai's next challenge is to rule without warlords

With most votes counted, and with questions over ballot irregularities expected to be settled soon, it is now all but certain that Hamid Karzai will become Afghanistan's first directly elected leader. Coming three years after US-led forces toppled the country's Taleban rulers, Mr Karzai's election is a milestone in Afghanistan's transition to peace after decades of conflict.

The challenges do not end with the conclusion of the poll. Mr Karzai's simple majority means that he is now more than just a temporary head of state, installed by the United States and confirmed by a conference of tribal representatives.

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