Karzai: My government will be for all Afghans

Afghan President Hamid Karzai is promising to create a government of national participation and banish corruption. His comments come a day after he was declared the winner of the country's re-election, when his opponent dropped out of the race.

Karzai says the next government will be inclusive. He wants people from every part of the country in his government, including the Taliban who are ready to lay down arms and join the peace process.

Karzai said, "...My government will be for all Afghans and all those who want to work with me are most welcome regardless of whether they opposed me in the election or whether they supported me in the election."

Karzai's main opponent in the election, Abdullah Abdullah, has numerous supporters in the northern provinces. The president may seek political compromise with Abdullah to facilitate stability. He also promises to institute stronger reforms and tackle corruption, over which US President Barack Obama and UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown have made overtures about.

Karzai said, "Our government's image has been tainted by corruption. We will strive, by any means possible, to eradicate this stain."

The country's Independent Election Commission Monday announced a second-round vote would not be needed, because Abdullah Abdullah abandoned his planned runoff. Karzai became president by default.