LASHKARGAH (Pajhwok): Leading presidential runner Dr. Ashraf Ghani Ahmadzai on Wednesday said he would take serious steps to bring about peace and stability to Afghanistan if elected as president in the April elections.
Addressing a rally of thousands of people in Lashkargah, Ghani said he was ready to render any sacrifice for peace and security.
“Trust me, my leadership will represent the people and there will be no favoritism. All responsibilities will be bestowed on professional individuals.”
The former finance minister promised he would spare no effort in combating administrative corruption and ensuring a better and judicious form of government if he won the ballot.
Advanced religious and modern educational institutes would be established so that the Afghans avoided going to foreign countries for education, he said.
 “I will pay special attention to the construction of Kajaki hydropower dam and will find market for cotton produced in Helmand and other provinces.”
The former World Bank employee said his economic plan mostly focused on development projects, infrastructure and mines’ development.
“Women would enjoy all rights enshrined in Islam. They can vote and seek education and jobs in offices,” Ghani said.
His chief campaigner in Helmand, lawmaker Abdul Zahir Qadir urged the gathering to vote for Ghani for the sake of an effective government.
Tribal elder Haji Shah Agha said the people of Helmand had realised the importance of vote and they would make no mistake.
“Helmand people want peace, security and modern facilities like people have in other countries, but in line with Islamic rules,” he said.