Bob McCarty Writes

Yesterday, I published a post about plans of the BBC’s World Have Your Say radio program to broadcast a 45-minute recording of a question-and-answer session with a representative of the Taliban.  Today, I had a chance to listen to a podcast of the session and found it worth sharing if, for no other reason, to hear how the Taliban attempt to “spin” the facts.

Click to listen to BBC audio.

According to BBC presenter Ros Atkins, the interview took place at an undisclosed location — but presumably inside Afghanistan — between BBC security correspondent Frank Gardner and Zabiullah Mujahid, a well-known Taliban spokesperson.

Topics covered include conditions for ending the war in Afghanistan, women’s rights, the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, and the Taliban’s feelings about President-elect Barack Obama.  Unfortunately, Mujahid refused to provide honest answers to questions and, instead, couched most of his answers in claims that the Taliban is only concerned about Afghanistan, ridding the country of foreign influence and reimplementing Sharia Law.

To listen to the podcast, click here or click on the graphic at right.  After listening, please share your comments below.