TOLOnews 07 August 2012

Top news in this Bulletin:

NATO announced that it has appointed Maurits R. Jochems as the new Senior Civilian Representative in Afghanistan.

"Our mission in Afghanistan is in a very important phase and I look forward to helping to ensure that the transition goes smoothly," said Ambassador Jochems. "I will also make it a priority to continue the good work in forging a close working partnership with the Government of Afghanistan and other actors. The success of our mission will be vital to secure a stable and prosperous Afghanistan. That is my goal."

Afghan Minister of Defense Abdul Rahim Wardak has left his position after being dismissed by Parliament on Saturday for a weak response to cross-border shelling and recent assassination attempts. his nine years service in the office

Speaking in a briefing at the Ministry of Defense Wardak praised the Afghanistan National Army's dedication to the country.

Security refused a TOLOnews reporter entry to the Fiance Minister's press briefing where Hazrat Omar Zakhilwal responded to allegations of corruption.

Zakhilwal has allegedly received over $1.5m to his bank accounts in Alfalah and Standard Chartered Banks.