Firing of General McChrystal does not augur well for Afghan war
Looking at the overall situation, an impartial observer cannot but say that the immature action of President Obama has indeed damaged the war effort in Afghanistan.
I WISH it had not happened. General McChrystal has been given the marching orders from Afghanistan. One wonders whether he would swallow the insult and continue to be in the uniform. As an honest, upright and self-respecting General, he may like to hang his spurs. Enough is enough. After he had owned up his mistake and apologised, there was no need for President Obama to have summoned him to the White House to give a public dressing down. It was insulting to an Army General, who had been doing well. Removal of the commanding general from his command has only helped the Taliban strengthen their position. Obama has caused rejoicings in the enemy camp. It does not speak well of the top most executive to buttress the position of the enemy.
There is a silver lining to the dark cloud. General Petraues will be the new commanding General in Afghanistan. He knows what is what and may be in saddle soon holding the reins. it is hoped that he would be able to control the situation on the war front.
By a single stroke the President has succeeded in asserting the authority of the civil administration. Nevertheless, he has damaged the military reputation and fighting prowess of a battle hardened general very badly. History may view the unpleasant episode with a detached angle after some more water has flown down the Potomac river in Washington DC.
Looking at the overall situation, an impartial observer cannot but say that the immature action of President Obama has indeed damaged the war effort in Afghanistan. Afterall, the President of the United States has to take care of the interests of the nation as a whole. He should not get bogged down in the petty controversy of civil versus military. Such petty problems should be left to the lower echelons to be sorted out.
A poignant scene from the Rose garden of the White House needs be told and retold. After briefing the Press , as the president was about to walk away, a reporter yelled "Is the war in Afghanistan winnable?". The President was nonplussed, looked at the reporter and just remained silent. The question went unanswered because the President perhaps did not know the answer.
The President's silence was indeed deafening.
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