Committed to assisting Afghanistan in conducting successful elections: UN
The United Nations (UN) has said it remains committed to assisting the people of Afghanistan in conducting their first elections since 2001 and supports the country's government in its pursuit of democratic development, prosperity, and durable peace. The UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan welcomed the recent progress made towards Afghanistan's parliamentary polls, including candidate vetting and other preparations required for printing ballots on schedule.
UN advises political parties, electoral management bodies about upcoming elections
"While preparations are on track for holding the elections on October 20, all parties must perform their respective roles to meet the necessary timelines and conditions," UN Secretary-General's Special Representative for Afghanistan, Tadamichi Yamamoto, said. "The government, the electoral management bodies, and Afghanistan's political leaders carry the responsibility to create the necessary conditions for credible elections to take place," he said in a statement.
UN supports Afghanistan's reforms over transparency, women participation: Yamamoto
The role of the UN was to provide technical advice to the electoral management bodies and to channel international funding for the elections, Yamamoto's statement said. He said the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan remained committed to working with Afghan institutions as they implement reforms to enhance transparency and build trust in Afghanistan's democratic processes, including promoting women's participation as voters and as candidates.
All Afghans must participate in Afghanistan's democratic process: Yamamoto
"The electoral management bodies can respond to constructive criticism, but they need the support of all stakeholders. All Afghans have a stake in successful elections, and it is therefore crucial for all Afghans to participate in Afghanistan's democratic processes," Yamamoto said.
