According to the preplanned work schedule, the IEC will commence distribution of essential materials from Saturday, 24th of October, it said in a statement issued here.

The IEC requested both the leading candidates Hamed Karzai and Dr.

Abdullah Abdullah, who will compete against each other, to organize their electoral campaigns based on the electoral laws and procedures - after the end of the challenges period and ceasing two days prior to the election. "Thus the campaigns must take place within 12 days from 12pm of 24 October until 12pm of November 5," the statement said.

The IEC said all those media and observer groups would be allowed to monitor the run-off whose cards are still valid. The IEC will not be accrediting any new organization or entity but will accredit new individuals introduced by an accredited organization on receipt of the completed forms.

Only the agents of the two leading presidential candidates and of already accredited political parties would remain authorized to monitor the run-off election and the accreditation cards for these agents are still valid.

pr/ma