Ballot paper problem resolved in time: IEC chief

KABUL) on Saturday confirmed shortages of ballot papers at 333 polling stations in different provinces, but the problem was resolved soon.

IEC Chairman Mohammad Yusuf Nuristani told a news conference in Kabul that the requisite materials had been delivered to all polling sites across the country and the voting process continued smoothly.

Eligible voters are exercising their franchise at 6,204 polling stations, according to the chairman, who said they lacked information about voting at 40 sites due to their distant locations and lack of communications.

Nuristani said reports about lack of ballot papers and ink were received from 333 polling stations in big cities until 1:30pm. The panel reacted quickly to supply the necessary materials in time.

A commission tasked with investigating such incidents had confirmed the exhaustion of ink at some polling sites, he added, expressing satisfaction with the voting process.

People understood the importance of the election, he said, praising the role of security forces. He said rigging would not be tolerated, warning IEC employees found involved in fraud would be referred for prosecution.

nh/mud