KABUL (PAN): Runner-up Dr Abdullah Abdullah has said he was ready for a second round of voting in Afghanistan's presidential election, saying he would soon explain his suggestions for preventing fraud in the run-off.

Abdullah, who would challenge the incumbent Hamid Karzai on November 7^th, told a press conference that the IEC decision was 'a step forwards towards progress'.

On Tuesday, IEC announced that the run-off will be held on November 7 as none of the two leading candidates, Hamid Karzai and Abdullah, were able to win an outright majority.

Calling on Afghan officials to organize a 'free, fair and credible election' with enough security arrangements, Abdullah said they were fully ready for the second round.

He expressed his hope the November election would take place on time and 'under good circumstances.'

Abdullah urged measures in order to avoid a repetition of the fraud.

He said casting ballots in the face of Taliban threats was meant risking their lives, but they should be confident that the risk is worthwhile.

Abdullah also lauded Karzai for accepting the IEC the findings election results and said he had talked to him on telephone Tuesday evening.

"I am ready to contest in the run-off," said Abdullah who noted transparency and maintaining security of the electorates would be key issues in the run-off.

He said he had some suggestions and conditions for the next round which he would explain to the media soon.

In response to a query about Kai Eide's role in the election, Abdullah said the IEC and Eide's role was under question at the beginning, but was good in last stages.

He said those who violated election and constitutional laws of Afghanistan during the elections shall face legal consequences.

Without elaborating, he said he would adopt a new campaign policy during the run-off.

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