Holy war the path to reform, says bin Laden deputy

In a clear reference to Iraq’s election, a statement purportedly made by Osama bin Laden’s top deputy says holy war, not forged elections, is the only path for reform in Islamic nations.

The written statement, said to have been the transcript of an audio taped recording of a speech by al-Qaida number two Ayman al-Zawahri, appeared on several Islamist internet sites.