7 voting stations in Baghlan facing serious security threats

KABUL: (MEP) – The provincial election commission chief has voiced fears over insecurity in seven polling sites of northern Baghlan, describing insecurity the biggest challenge to the polls.

Amanullah Habibi stated the transparency of the elections was linked to the improved security situation. If the security challenges removed, Habibi added they would be able to hold the elections fearlessly.

“If the security problems are removed from our away, we will assure you that we will hold transparent and fair elections.”

The provincial assembly members of Faryab also voice fear over insecurity problems, saying many districts are facing insurgent threats.

“Not only the threats from the armed militants remain as they are but they have rather increased. And it is a big problem,” said a provincial council member.

The security forces, however, report of full preparations for provision of security during election days.

“We are ready to serve for our people, we won’t allow the insurgents to disrupt the most important national process, our personal with their modern weapons are fully prepared to thwart any possible insurgent threats,” said Lieutenant Colonel Ziauddin, ANA battalion commander in Faryab.

About 257 polling centers have been considered for Baghlan, of which seven centers are facing serious insurgent threats.