UN panel to probe election irregularities
Kabul (AsiaNews/Agencies) An independent three-member panel set up by the UN will examine all irregularities that might have taken place in Afghanistan's elections and report its findings by the end of October.
"After this investigation is finished," President Hamid Karzai's chief rival, Yunus Qanooni, said, "and if it is a good investigation, I will tell you, I will support the election and [. . .] respect the will of millions of Afghans and go along with our national interests." An exit poll showed Karzai leading by a wide margin, enough to avoid a run-off.
Along with 13 other candidates Qanooni had called the process illegitimate and demanded fresh elections. Following talks with Western diplomats and UN officials, he agreed to an independent panel of inquiry that would report on the allegations, but also said he wanted the inquiry findings published before the election results were announced.
Ray Kennedy, Vice Chairman of the Joint Electoral Management Body, said that "the panel will comprise a former Canadian diplomat, a Swedish election specialist and a third member to be named by the European Union." He also did not exclude the possibility of reopening polling stations so candidates who boycotted the election on Saturday may cast their votes. Qanooni had also complained that some of the polling stations in areas where he has wide support opened late and closed early.
Interim President Hamid Karzai stressed the joy and hope that the election generated. "People showed they did not want war and terrorism any more, but a better life," he said.
Western leaders expressed their satisfaction about the election's outcome. German Chancellor Schroeder emphasised how "Afghanistan took a decisive step towards democracy" predicting that Karzai would win on the first ballot.
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08/10/2004
07/12/2004
