Security Council stresses transparent electoral process

KABUL (Pajhwok): The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has underlined the need for the highest standards of integrity throughout the electoral process.

All parties concerned should help ensure the election outcome reflected the will of the Afghan people, the UNSC said in a presidential statement on Monday.

It called for a quick resolution of outstanding electoral issues, including the approval of candidates to fill critical vacancies within the Independent Election Commission and the Electoral Complaints Commission.

The 15-member body emphasised on the establishment of a central database of registered voters and the publication of a final list of contenders.

The role of UNAMA in supporting the elections and strengthening of electoral reform efforts, as well as the need for observation missions to be in place, was also underscored.

Around 8.9 million registered individuals, including more than 3 million women, are expected to vote in the parliamentary and district council elections on October 20.

The council calls on all parties to adhere to the requirements of the electoral law and all other relevant regulations.

Afghan Ambassador Mahmoud Saikal praised the UNSC for taking a firm stand on the course of democratisation of his country.

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