10-02-2008, 09:06 PM
<b>After Baitullah, what</b>? - B.Raman (another view)
<!--QuoteBegin-->QUOTE<!--QuoteEBegin-->In the meanwhile, rumours about his death have raised the question as to what will be the effect of his death, if it comes about, on the conventional as well as unconventional operations of the TTP. In fact, two days ago, there were rumours of his death, but these were refuted by his spokesmen. The role of Baitullah has been similar to that of bin Laden in respect of Al Qaeda's global operations----inspiration, motivation and guidance, where necessary, and not day-to-day control. The various Taliban groups enjoy and have exhibited considerable autonomy of operation. It is, therefore, assessed that Baitullah's death will not have a major adverse effect on the operations of Al Qaeda and the various Taliban and Uzbek groups in the tribal belt. One of his deputies may take over as the new Amir of the TTP<!--QuoteEnd--><!--QuoteEEnd-->
<!--QuoteBegin-->QUOTE<!--QuoteEBegin-->In the meanwhile, rumours about his death have raised the question as to what will be the effect of his death, if it comes about, on the conventional as well as unconventional operations of the TTP. In fact, two days ago, there were rumours of his death, but these were refuted by his spokesmen. The role of Baitullah has been similar to that of bin Laden in respect of Al Qaeda's global operations----inspiration, motivation and guidance, where necessary, and not day-to-day control. The various Taliban groups enjoy and have exhibited considerable autonomy of operation. It is, therefore, assessed that Baitullah's death will not have a major adverse effect on the operations of Al Qaeda and the various Taliban and Uzbek groups in the tribal belt. One of his deputies may take over as the new Amir of the TTP<!--QuoteEnd--><!--QuoteEEnd-->