Afghan President Hamid Karzai on Saturday appointed the governor of the western province of Herat minister for mines and industries, a presidential press statement said. "Endorsed by the National Security Council, the president's decision to promote Khan is based on the government's appreciation for the invaluable commitment and efforts he has put into his role as the governor of Herat province," the statement said. "Khan's extensive experience, gained from the effective management of provincial affairs over the years, as well as his management skills, are useful assets that must be utilized at the national level," the statement added. Said Mohammad Khair-Khowa, the former Afghan ambassador to Ukraine, has been appointed new governor of Herat, according to the statement. Hakim Tanaiwal, the former minister for mines and industries has been appointed minister for labour and social affairs, the statement added. Karzai has asked the people of Herat to cooperate with the new governor. The new appointments were made only four weeks before the elections on October 9. Khan, an ethnic Tajik was considered one of the main opponents of president Karzai, an ethnic Pashton. In April 2004, Mirwais Saddeq, elder son of Khan and former minister for civil aviation and tourism was killed by loyalists to a senior commander in Herat. Last month, Amanullah, a regional rebel commander attacked Khan's position in Shindand airport, in Herat province and killed more than 20 of his fighters. Following armed clashes that lasted for four days, the Afghan defense minister sent 1,500 Afghan National Army (ANA)to the area and the airport is being controlled by ANA now. However, it was unclear whether Khan would accept the new position in Kabul. Mohammad Ibrahim Malekzada, the former governor of Ghor, was appointed advisor to the ministry of interior while Abdul Qadir Alam was appointed new governor of Ghor province.
