Positive that the rules are being followed in Afghanistan

The Independent Election Commission of Afghanistan announced today that there will be a second round of voting in the presidential election, in accordance with Afghan electoral law, as no candidate secured more than 50% of the vote in the first round.

“In making this announcement, the Independent Election Commission and President Karzai are confirming that they are following their country’s political rules. This is crucial if Afghanistan’s next government is to have legitimacy,” commented Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

The Independent Election Commission has therefore responded to yesterday’s declaration from the Electoral Complaints Commission, which concluded that there had been extensive fraud. President Karzai has said that the second round can be held as early as the beginning of November.

Mr Støre commended the Electoral Complaints Commission for its efforts, which have shown that election fraud and irregularities were widespread.

“The scale of election fraud is regrettable. However, I am pleased that the Electoral Complaints Commission has dealt with these matters so thoroughly, despite the circumstances being so difficult. The fact that the UN has lent its clear support to the Commission’s work and conclusions has been vital,” Mr Støre said.

“A prerequisite for our military and civilian involvement is that the Afghan Government has sufficient legitimacy. The fact that the Electoral Complaints Commission’s conclusions have been respected gives hope that such legitimacy can be secured,” Mr Støre said.

“Today’s announcement has great significance for the efforts to ensure political stability, security and economic development for the Afghan population. Norway will continue to contribute to these efforts, in close cooperation with the next President of Afghanistan and his government, and together with the UN, NATO and other partners,” the Foreign Minister added.