UN chief condemns deadly attacks in Afghanistan

KABUL (Pajhwok): The UN secretary-general has called for a peaceful and orderly parliamentary election, denouncing recent attacks on candidates and their supporters. .

António Guterres, in a statement issued by his spokesperson, said deliberate targeting of civilians was a violation of international humanitarian law.

At least 22 people were killed and more than 35 wounded on Saturday in a bomb attack on an election campaign rally in northern Takhar province.

Elsewhere in the country, two individuals including a child were killed in a separate attack on a candidate’s office in western Herat province.

The UN chief urged all parties to ensure a peaceful and orderly electoral process by creating a safe environment for candidates to campaign and for citizens to exercise their right to assemble and vote.

António Guterres also extended his deepest sympathies to the families of those killed and wished a speedy recovery to the injured.

PAN Monitor/mud