Many Afghans say poverty, corruption and unemployment are the main reasons for the fighting in the country. The feelings surfaced in a survey of about 700 Afghan civilians conducted by the aid organisation, Oxfam.

Those questioned believe the role of the Taliban in the country's problems is far less important. Oxfam says the survey results show that Afghanistan needs more than just military intervention. It is calling on the government in Kabul to tackle corruption and to do more to maintain the rule of law.

The call comes a day after the inauguration of President Hamid Karzai who won a second term after his presidential rival Abdullah Abdullah pulled out of the second-round race. Dr Abdullah said he had no faith that the run-off would be free and fair.

photo: Kabul (flickr/Abdurahman Warsame)