Afghan Finance Minister Accuses 'Corrupt' Lawmakers

Afghan Finance Minister Omar Zakhilwal

Afghanistan's finance minister has leveled detailed corruption allegations at several lawmakers during a televised session of the parliament's lower house.

Omar Zakhilwal's accusations on May 13 triggered cheers and applause from many deputies in the chamber.

During his own impeachment on nepotism and graft charges, Zakhilwal named several very influential lawmakers who he claimed were involved in smuggling alcohol, fuel, and cars.

Zakhilwal, who survived a vote to impeach him, accused other lawmakers of demanding lucrative foreign business contracts and free houses.

Billions of dollars in aid have been pledged to help Afghanistan on condition that corruption is brought under control.

The government is often accused of failing to tackle the issue in a meaningful way.

Corruption is one of the key challenges facing Afghanistan ahead of the withdrawal of U.S.-led combat troops by the end of 2014.

Based on reporting by AFP and khaama.com