| At the United Nations, officials announced a one-day delay in a conference in Bonn aimed at paving the way for a new Afghan government following the Taliban's collapse. The meeting will now open Tuesday because of delays in getting participants to the venue in Bonn. Former President Burhanuddin Rabbani cannot simply reoccupy his old position as the country’s ruler, said Ahmed Wali Massood, who is also the brother of the Northern Alliance’s slain military chief. Massood said Thursday that Rabbani would be part of the transitional government to be created under the auspices of the United Nations - nothing more. Rabanni says he is ready to step down if next week's meeting in Bonn decides to name a new head of government. |