Paktika IEC head accused of corruption

SHARAN (Pajhwok): Observers and public awareness officers on Sunday blamed the Independent Election Commission (IEC) director for southeastern Paktika province for involvement in misuse of funds.

At least 65 observers and public awareness officers were appointed in July last year to launch an awareness drive about elections in the province. The project lasted four and a half months. 

Mohammad Farid, an observer in Mata Khan district, accused IEC Director Zarab Gul of financial embezzlement and refusing to reimburse their travel expenses.

Qalandar, another observer, warned of protests if their travel expenses were not paid. Ali Mohammad, a public awareness officer, blamed provincial IEC of not releasing their due funds and employees’ salaries.

Wishing not to be named, one IEC official said his department’s head was involved in massive financial corruption and stealing the expenses of employees.

However, IEC Commissioner Sharifa Zurmati promised the issue would be addressed and grievances of staff resolved after a meeting with the secretary of the commission.

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