By NNN-KUNA,
United Nations : Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Saturday commended Afghani women and men for their “courage and determination” in exercising their democratic right to vote during the parliamentary election that began today, his press office said in a statement.
He noted the high number of candidates seeking office, over 2,500 including almost 400 women, and the important role of Afghan civil society in observing the process.
He also commends the efforts of the Afghan National Security Forces to protect the people of Afghanistan during this democratic exercise, which took place in more than 5,000 polling centres countrywide.
Ban noted that this election has taken place amid significant security challenges and condemns the reported acts of violence, expressing his condolences to the families and friends of those who lost their lives.
He acknowledged the efforts so far of the leadership and staff of the Afghan electoral bodies, the Independent Election Commission and the Electoral Complaints Commission.
He called on all parties to use appropriate legal channels to file complaints and asked for patience as the electoral authorities complete the process in accordance with the law.