The State Department has urged the Afghan candidates and voters not to prejudge the outcome of the election or speculate on partial returns.
A spokesperson for the Department of State said Monday “While waiting for an announcement of authoritative results by the Independent Election Commission (IEC), we urge both candidates and voters not to prejudge the outcome of the election or speculate on partial returns.”
The spokesperson further added “We applaud the courage of Afghan voters who showed up at the polls despite technical challenges and threats of violence. We also commend poll workers and the Afghan security forces who worked to secure voters and polling sites for their courage.”
Categorically condemning all attacks on voters and other efforts to undermine the election, the State Department spokesperson said “These attacks stand in stark contrast to the aspirations of the Afghan people for peace, security, and economic stability.”
“Afghan government institutions and leaders must be transparent and accountable to the Afghan people,” the State Department spokespersons said, adding that “We expect Afghanistan’s institutions to take all necessary steps to ensure the election, including the investigation of complaints and tabulation of results, is transparent and credible to Afghan voters and the international community.”
