(AP Islamabad) Amidst cries of "foul" from both sides, Al-Queda has demanded a recount to determine the winners of the war in Afghanistan, claiming that many fighters incorrectly shot Taliban and Al Queda fighters, when they meant to shoot Northern Alliance or American Soldiers.

 "It's confusing", said an unnamed al-Queda source, "And while I'm not implying deliberate deception, it's true that many of the Northern Alliance fighters wore clothing very similar to the dress of Taliban fighters". "In particular,", the source went on, "We had an older group of fighters whose eyesight may not have been good enough to discern the different rifle models and small differences in uniform that distinguish Northern Alliance and Taliban troops. All we are asking is for the participation of each and every fighter to be represented fairly."

The body recount is already underway in Mazara-e-Sharif, with volunteers from the Taliban recovering  the mass graves of dead soldiers from both sides, and attempting to determine the intent of the shooter. Although most of the bullet wounds are completely in accordance with expected practice, some irregularities have already shown up involving multiple ambiguous bullet holes. 

For example, one body had been shot several times, with bullets from several models of rifle, the AK-47's normally used by the Taliban, and more recent models of American and European firearms. Other punctures, notably stab wounds, are of an ambiguous nature, indicating a change of mind at the last minute.

There have been a few instances of "Hanging Chads", but experts agree this may simply be due to the fact that Chad is an unusual name in Afghanistan. There have been no "Pregnant Chads" so far, and none are expected.

Northern Alliance representatives have already started a counter suit, putting their case before the newly appointed Supreme Court whose temporary offices are in Mazara-e-Sharif. 

"We're watching this like hawks - heck exactly like hawks", said a White House source very close to the president, "and if these guys misunderestimate our will to win, and fumble the ball just when we're sliding into home for that winning slam dunk, my brother and dad say it's just possible for our Supreme Court to pitch in with some more back stop action."

Such participation by the United States Supreme Court will probably be unnecessary, say experts.  The Northern Alliance appointed the members of the Afghan court in an emergency proceeding, following the precipitous beheading of the former members of the court several days ago. Though this would be an unusual intervention, some sources would expect this newly appointed court to act quickly, and in favor of the Northern Alliance.  

"Sure, it may mean a few more weeks of bombing and fighting.", said a source within the Taliban, "But I'm sure most Afghans would rather take the time to get it right, and arrive at a correct result, rather than rush to judgment on the winner. All we're after is closure."

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