KABUL (Pajhwok): In an expected development, presidential runner Sardar Muhammad Nadir Naeem on Wednesday announced withdrawing from the electoral race in favour of Dr. Zalmai Rassoul.
At a joint news conference with Rassoul in Kabul, Naeem said his decision was driven by the supreme national interest, notably unity among the Afghans.
The decision was taken after consultation with his supporters, said the candidate, who added: “Supporting Zalmai Rassoul will bring us closer to national unity -- and ultimate success.”
In his remarks, Rassoul said Naeem’s support had helped him move a step closer to victory in the April 5 vote. The joining of his team by Abdul Qayyum Karzai had enhanced his energy to serve the nation, he added.
Rassoul, an ex-foreign minister, announced his doors remained open to other runners. On visits to provinces in connection with his election campaign, he found that people were fed up with extremism.
He claimed the masses wanted to vote for his team that stood for moderation, equality and construction. He urged the government to ensure transparent elections and let people decide their future on April 5.
President Hamid Karzai’s brother Abdul Qayyum Karzai has already retired in favour of Rassoul. Another presidential hopeful, Abdul Rahim Wardak, has also withdrawn from the race. But he has not publicly supported any candidate.
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