Brussels, 24/08/2009 (Agence Europe) - Inevitably affected by the country's precarious security situation, the organisation of presidential and provincial elections in Afghanistan requires, according to the European Union, a continued credible and inclusive process. Despite several attacks throughout the country, Afghan voters turned out to vote (except in the south) and the very fact that elections have taken place in Afghanistan is in itself “a notable achievement”, states the preliminary report by the EU electoral observation mission published on Saturday 22 August. Looking at the various aspects of the electoral process, the report notes a large number of failings, however, especially concerning the constitution of electoral lists, campaign coverage by state public media, the existence of threats and intimidation towards candidates, electoral administration and the electorate. Philipped Morillon, who heads the mission, thus takes the view that the electoral process “was in general good and fair” but “not free” everywhere, due to violence and threats.
In a declaration published the same day, the European Union “takes note with concern of reports of irregularities and fraud” and trusts that the “Independent Election Commission, ,the Electoral Complaints Commission and the Media Complaints Commission will address all irregularities in a conscientious, transparent, impartial and timely manner”. It goes on to call on all parties concerned to refrain from prejudging the outcome, and to simply resort to legal means and to the appropriate state institutions for the settlement of disputes and complaints. The first results will be announced on 3 September and the final results on 17 September, with a possible second round early October.
Benita Ferrero-Waldner, who calls on all candidates to show proof of responsibility in this post-electoral phase, says in another press release that the elections are “a victory for the Afghan people and a victory for democracy”. However, “democracy is a process and not a single event”, the external relations commissioner points out, stressing that the European Commission is “fully committed to the stabilisation and democratisation of Afghanistan and will continue its long-term engagement in the country”. (A.B./transl.jl)