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ElectionsThe Bonn Agreement and the new Afghan Constitution emphasises the importance of free and fair elections in the peacebuilding process. Originally planned for summer 2004 the Presidential election is now scheduled for 9 October 2004 and Parliament election for April 2005. The Constitutions envisaged these elections to take place at the same time. However, practical reasons and lacking political decisions on drawing up provincial borders and deciding on provincial and district representation let to a postponement of the Parliament election. A fragile security situation is frequently sited as a major obstacle for holding of elections.
There are presently 18 registered candidates for President, each of which has nominated two Vice-Presidents. To be elected as President one candidate will need more than 50 % of the votes, otherwise there will be a second election round between the two contesters with the highest vote.
An elaborate process is envisaged for elections to the two chambers of the Parliament, including both direct vote and indirect through elected Provincial and District councils. The Election Law includes strict regulations to ensure female representation in the Parliament. Links: JEMB:
Afghanistan Presidential Election Results Documents: Publications: Afghanistan Research and Evaluation Unit (September 2004) International Crisis Group (November 2004) Human Rights Watch Briefing Paper (September 2004) Mark Sedra (2004) |
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