Abdullah: Govt in bid to rig presidential vote

KABUL): A key opposition coalition on Thursday accused the government of trying to rig the upcoming presidential elections, saying the authorities were intent on catapulting a candidate of its choice to power.

National Coalition of Afghanistan leader Dr. Abdullah Abdullah alleged the government wanted to ensure the success of its favourite in an effort further disturb the situation.

Addressing a gathering that marked the eighth death anniversary of jihadi leader Saifuddin Ikhlas Saighani in Kabul, who was assassinated in Bamyan in 2005, the foreign minister said the government was sponsoring public meetings in different areas to achieve its objective. 

On Tuesday, hundreds of residents of southern Kandahar province demanded either President Karzai’s term be extended or he should be allowed to seek reelection for a third time.

At a gathering arranged by a youth organisation in Arghandab district, a large number of tribal elders, influential figures and local residents suggested changes to the constitution to let Karzai run for a third term.

Abdullah urged the parliament to ensure the early approval of the draft election law that the Wolesi Jirga for debate and passage.

Another opposition leader, Yunus Qanuni, said the government was in a bid to delay the vote. “Defying all pressures, we must participate in the elections to decide our future.”

Certain circles were hatching conspiracies behind the scenes to scuttle the vote, Qanuni said, making clear the coalition was not against the fielding of consensus candidates for the ballot.

“If those at the helm want to field nominees before evolving consensus, we will never accept such a move,” the former speaker said.

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