Insecurity threatens polls in Nangarhar: Qadir

KABUL): A lawmaker from Nangarhar on Saturday warned holding inclusive elections would not be possible if solid steps were not taken to improve the security situation in the eastern province.

Addressing the Wolesi Jirga in Nangarhar had deteriorated as district chiefs in 16 towns were unable to visit their offices.

He said district chiefs avoided to travel in police escort and instead used taxis. He warned if the security situation was not taken seriously, holding inclusive presidential and provincial council elections slated for April 5 would be impossible in Nangarhar.

“All lawmakers are tightlipped over the issue, they think the security situation in Nangarhar is stable, but it is not true; there is no stability.”

Meanwhile, Haji Allah Gul Mujahid, a lawmaker from Kabul, said Nangarhar turned a hot bed for insurgent activities during cold winter because it bordered Pakistan, where militants openly operated.

However, he said the currently situation in Nangarhar was not that worrisome. He said district chiefs did not travel in police escort because insurgents often targeted police vehicles with roadside bombs.  

Nangarhar police chief Gen. Fazel Ahmad Sherzad told Pajhwok Afghan News security threats in districts had been reduced as a result of recent search operations.

He said the operations were conducted in Khogyani, Chaparhar, Achin and Nazian districts, where the situation had improved and security posts established.

He rejected concerns that security problems could threaten the elections, saying all government departments discharged their affairs without any concern.

mrh/ma

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