Fraud In Afgahn Elections

Unfortunately in Afghanistan, there have been findings of voter fraud in the Sept. 18 parliamentary elections. Afghan officials have stated that around, "25 percent of votes are likely to be thrown out." This is unfortunate news for a country that has been trying to turn the page and become more democratic. It seems as though Afghanistan is becoming more of a illiberal democracy with certain people or groups that have too much power. The way in which the fraud was conducted was truly sad. There have been reports of ballot-box stuffing and forcing citizens to vote at gun point. In turn over 800,000 votes are expected to be nullified. It is to be said that with good reason these votes are nullified as under these circumstances none of those corrupt votes should count. Afghan is also investigating whether it should close down certain polling cities altogether because of fear that they are completely corrupt. Political pressure is enormous, especially with some much power in Afghanistan up for grabs. However, voter fraud should be taken very seriously by the Afghan community. It is important for the people of Afghanistan to be proactive, and to continue to stride for more opportunities and freedoms.

Tim McEniff
www.nytimes.com/2010/10/18/world/asia/18kabut.html?pagewanted=1&_r=1&hp