Sayyaf nominated as presidential candidate

 KABUL):  Renowned jihadi leader Abdul Rab Rassoul Sayyaf would contest the presidential vote, with Qaseem Fahim and Mohammad Mohaqiq named as his running mates, a well-placed source said.

The decision was taken at a meeting of the National Coalition of Afghanistan at the residence of Fahim on Monday evening. Water and Energy Minister Ismail Khan, Abdullah Abdullah, Younus Qanuni and other jihadi leaders attended.

The nomination of Sayyaf was finalised and Fahim and Mohaqiq named as his deputies. Dr. Abdullah and Qanuni were asked to support the nominations, a member of the coalition said on condition of anonymity.

But aides to Sayyaf and Mohaqiq said they were unaware of the decision. Abdullah refused to accept the decision and said it had to be endorsed by the coalition, the source said.

myn/mud

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