Winning local support from a proud, independent people. I do wonder if the model used by the British along the NW Frontier, yes the other side of the Durand Line, offers some guidance - often the people and tribes are the same.
The locals were left to govern themselves as much as possible (not very progressive and confirmed by the Pakistanis when returning to FATA after 9/11. - no schools, no medical facilities etc).
There was a set of rules on what the locals could not do, notably to the supply roads and railways for the military garrisons along the border. The roads were guarded by local raised forces.
There was a well known enforcement tariff, which occassionally meant military action to enforce fines on tribes etc.
Locally recruited para-military forces, paid for - without any local taxes and with long term seconded officers / NCOs.
Nothing I have heard about the situation today indicates the national Afghan government has a proper role outside Kabul. So start local, bottom up.
From my comfortable armchair.
davidbfpo
Bookmarks