ECG to candidates: Respect Election Law

KABUL (Pajhwok): The Election Support Group (ESG) ambassadors met presidential candidates to discuss their role contributing to a transparent electoral process ahead of the Sept. 28 ballot.

The ambassadors acknowledged the large number of agents accredited by candidates so far and encouraged those who have not done so to take advantage of the extension of the registration window, which will close on September 25.

The presence of agents and other Afghan election observers in polling stations and at the National Tally Centre, and their close observation of all stages of polling, counting and the tally process provide an important check on the institutions responsible for delivering transparent elections.

The diplomats noted the concerns expressed by several candidates about a level playing field and the improper use of state resources to influence and/or co-opt voters, which erode public confidence in the fairness of the process.

In this regard, they reiterated their call for all candidates to respect the Election Law and the Code of Conduct they had signed, and refrain from actions that undermined the process.

The Independent Election Commission (IEC) have an obligation to keep the public informed of steps being taken to curb such violations to enable voters to make an informed choice. 

The ambassadors noted their support for non-partisan domestic electoral observers to provide an additional check both on candidates and electoral institutions, and their right to call out abuses on Election Day and in the days that follow.

They reiterated the credibility of the election was the collective responsibility of not just the electoral institutions, but all Afghan stakeholders, including candidates.

They called upon candidates and their supporters to back the remaining phases of the process. Candidates must refrain from unsubstantiated public accusations, avoid interference in the voting, counting, results tabulation and the complaint adjudication processes.

The runners were asked to submit immediately any evidence-based grievances they might have through the established institutional complaints mechanism, the ECC.  

“We will hold all candidates accountable to the Code of Conduct they signed.  Candidates must not dispute results through extra-legal means or civil disorder.”

The ambassadors urged all candidates to strongly and publicly condemn all forms of election-related violence and threats of violence. 

They underlined the importance of all stakeholders ensuring the full participation of Afghan women in the election. 

The ESG highlighted the important role of the IEC and the ECC as custodians of the votes of the people, and the need for them to shoulder this great responsibility independently, professionally and with impartiality.

“We commend the steps they have taken so far to ensure the elections are as credible and transparent as possible. Afghan voters who risk their lives to participate in elections deserve to know the outcome accurately reflects their choice.”

The Election Support Group said it would continue to closely monitor developments.

pr/sa/mud

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