Armed Pakistani Taliban with rocket-propelled-grenade launchers patrol near the Swat valley region in Pakistan. RASHID IQBAL / EPAFrom Time Magazine:
Terrorist groups often boast about their unity of purpose, the single-minded pursuit of their apocalyptic goals. But when it comes to leadership succession, history shows they are rarely united. The death of a charismatic leader often leads to fragmentation and infighting, followed by a loss of focus and effectiveness. Case in point: al-Qaeda's Iraqi arm never recovered from the killing of Abu Mousab al-Zarqawi.
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Update: Killing of Pakistan Taliban chief could touch off power struggle - Christian Science Monitor
Update #2: Baitullah Mehsud is dead but Taliban still strong in Pakistan's tribal belt -- The Guardian
My Comment: The killing of Baitullah Mehsud is a big thing. His demise will impact the Pakistani Taliban and it will also impact those who were dependent on his leadership and resources. Will the Taliban disappear .... no. But it's effectiveness will be degraded as the fighting continues.