In Their Own Words

The Canadian press got in touch with some former Taliban fighters and asked them why they did it.

Janan says he has always supported the Taliban politically, with its stern interpretation of Islam and iron-fisted grip on security.

And-

Zaher is asked why he joined the Taliban in the first place.

During a 90-minute interview he mentioned the salary, the motorbike, the free house, the harrassment from Afghan officials and even the quality of the curry he was served on a Pakistani military compound.

But why did he join the Taliban in the first place?

"There was a religious component," he says.

"We were fighting for Islam."

Question is, of course, is anybody listening to what they say?