KABUL (Pajhwok): The United Nations on Monday urged all presidential candidates and their supporters to engage in a fair campaign as outlined in the election law.
In a statement, UNAMA asked presidential runners to respect the Independent Election Commission’s Code of Conduct and regulations enacted by the poll panel.
The presidential election campaign, which got under way on Sunday (yesterday), will run until September 25.
The mission hoped the campaigns would provide the people with sufficient information and understanding for them to exercise an informed choice for their next president.
“The media plays a particularly important role in the elections process, just as all Afghans should play their part in creating and ensuring an equitable and peaceful campaign period,” it added.
The UN called for registered voters to participate in the elections to enable the Afghan people, including women, to express their democratic will.
“All parties should be cognizant of their obligations under the law, including presidential decrees on non-interference by public officials and security forces in electoral affairs:
“All government officials are legally bound to separate their duties in government from campaigning or conducting themselves in a manner that would benefit specific candidates.”
UNAMA reiterated its continued commitment to an Afghan‐led and Afghan‐owned election, and acknowledged the efforts made by electoral management bodies, the government and other stakeholders to hold a transparent and credible presidential vote.
pr/mu