Loyalists of disqualified contenders shut IEC office in Kabul

Supporters of six disqualified Wolesi Jirga candidates on Monday closed the entrance to the Independent Election Commission (IEC) in Kabul.
Around one hundred supporters of the barred election contenders rallied in the capital against the IEC decision. They wanted the panel to reverse the decision.
the rally was staged by supporters of MullahTarakhel Mohammadi, Qais Hassan, Ziaul Haq Amarkhel, Sher Ali Ahmadzai, Zardad Faryadi and Akbar Stanikzai.
The protestors complained the Independent Electoral Complaints Commission (IECC) had not informed the candidates before their names were struck off the final list.
The angry demonstrators said the candidates should have been informed by the IECC, not by the media, and should be given the chance to explain their positions.
Mirza Mohammad Haqparast, deputy spokesman for the IEC, confirmed to Pajhwok Afghan News hundreds of supports of some disqualified candidates closed the commission’s main gate.
He said supporters of Mullah Tarakhel had erected two tents as well. “The protestors are not allowing our employees to enter the compound,” he complained.
Some of the protesters carried weapons, he claimed, saying the protest was their legal right but barring workers from entering their office was an illegal act.
Reporters at the site said the protestors had erected six tents close to the commission gate and only journalists were allowed to enter. They also confirmed armed men were among the demonstrators.
In the meantime, IEC chief condemned the closure of their office, warning that government and disgruntled candidates will be responsible for any possible delay in upcoming election.
Speaking at a press conference on Monday, Bade Sayyad said IEC can neither hold nor delay election on request of candidates.
He also called on all contenders to hold their demonstration in lawful way and don’t disturb IEC’s day-to-day operation.