/ 14 July 2012

Afghan politician amongst 22 dead in suicide bomb attack

Civilians bear the brunt of the violence in Afghanistan
Civilians bear the brunt of the violence in Afghanistan

Making it one of the most violent days in the country for months.

Influential Afghan politician Ahmad Khan Samangani, who hosted the party, was also killed in the attack, provincial governor Khairullah Anosh told Reuters.

"It was Ahmad Khan Samangani's daughter's wedding. A suicide bomber blew himself up, killing and wounding dozens," Anosh said.

Afghans in some parts of northern Afghanistan, which is relatively peaceful compared to volatile southern and eastern parts of the country, hold ceremonies early in the morning.

Civilians bear the brunt of the violence in Afghanistan, which is at its worst since the Islamist Taliban government was toppled by US-led Afghan forces in 2001.

Taliban insurgents fighting against President Hamid Karzai's Western-backed government have carried out dozens of suicide attacks this year. – Reuters