Security forces ready to protect Helmand polls

LASHKARGAH (Pajhwok): Foolproof security measures have been adopted throughout southern Helmand province to conduct peaceful and transparent elections, security officials said Tuesday.

The views were expressed in a high-level meeting, attended by officials of several departments, on reviewing preparations for the April 5 polls.

Maj. Gen. Abdul Qayyum Baqizoai, the provincial police chief, told the meeting he circulated special directives to his force what measures should be taken to secure the ballot.

Police force had been given specific training how to deal with threats to elections and drug smugglers, he said, adding the force was able to meet challenges effectively.

Brig. Gen. Mohammad Naeem, the provincial chief of the National Directorate of Security (NDS), noted security forces had thwarted several attempts aimed at disrupting the polls process.

Other Afghan National Army (ANA) officers also spoke on the occasion and noted with satisfaction that security forces were all set to protect the elections. They underlined the need that locals should extend their support to the government, which would help make the ballot process a successful.

Qudratullah Naqashbandi, provincial Independent Elections Commission (IEC) director, said he was optimistic elections would be held in a peaceful way throughout the province.

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