Kubiš stresses runoff election credibility

KABUL on Thursday urged all Afghans to participate actively in the second round of the presidential election, slated for June 14.

Ján Kubiš, the UN secretary-general’s special representative for Afghanistan, called upon security forces to secure the landmark elections.

Addressing a news conference in Kabul, the envoy asked the two electoral bodies to implement the recommendations of the campaign teams and improve the process.

“Afghanistan is heading for one of the most important days in the modern history of the country:  the run-off presidential elections on the 14th of June,” remarked Kubiš, who also heads UNAMA.

He hoped the Afghans would demonstrate on Saturday the same level of determination, resilience and courage as they showed in the first round of elections on April 5.

“My first message from this press conference is to the people of Afghanistan: use the opportunity, deliver the necessary change, reinforce the fundaments of your future and take part in the elections.”

Kubiš stressed the importance of election observation in deterring fraud and ensuring the credibility of the process and wide acceptance of its outcome. “It’s critically important that domestic observers are deployed in big numbers…”

He asked supporters of the two candidates to avoid using illegal means, intimidation or manipulation. “Don’t commit fraud and don’t allow anyone to commit fraud” was the message he emphasised.

Both candidates and their supporters should respect the work of the election commissions and eschew jumping to conclusions, Kubiš said. “Don’t make statements or comments in anticipation of the results. It will just mislead the people…”

He added the global fraternity was impartial, but interested in a good outcome of the election and supporting the people of Afghanistan in electing their next president.

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