NEW YORK -- The coming meeting in June of a "loya jirga," or national council, that will name members of a transitional government to rule the country for the next 18 months, offers hope for a return to normalcy in beleagered Afghanistan. An essential component in this process should be the creation of an independent judiciary, adequate judicial institutions, and a truth commission to deal with past crimes in the country.

Amnesty International recently issued a series of recommendations for the establishment of an independent criminal justice system, the building of adequate detention facilities, the establishment of a civilian police force and the combating of impunity. At all stages of judicial proceedings, it should protect the rights of those suspected of unlawful actions.

The creation of an independent and impartial judicial system will guarantee the rule of law in a country long ravaged by lawlessness. It should follow an early assessment of the number of prosecutors, judges and other legal professionals that are needed. Appropriate actions should be taken to ensure that people with adequate qualifications are selected for office and that they follow a code of ethics based on international standards.