A dispute over a decisive slice of votes in the country’s presidential election is again exposing the fragility of Afghan democracy, as President Trump pushes for a drawdown of troops.
Tag: Ghani, Ashraf
Two Western Hostages Are Freed in Afghanistan in Deal With Taliban
The two Western teachers held by the Taliban are safe with American forces, officials say, and three Taliban figures are freed. Some Afghans worry it won’t help renew peace talks.
Afghans Demanded a Fair Election. They Could Be Waiting a While for Results.
Measures meant to prevent a repeat of fraudulent elections resulted in delays that will likely mean an Oct. 19 deadline for announcing the winner will be missed.
Signs of Ballot-Box Stuffing Add Tension to Afghan Vote Count
Despite measures to prevent fraud, indications point toward another marred presidential vote. Attention focuses on the commissioners who can weed it out.
To Disrupt Elections, Taliban Turn to an Old Tactic: Destroying Cell Towers
The insurgent group’s strategy of disrupting cellular communication highlights the delicate balance of fighting the government while trying to gain support from the rural populace.
Both Afghan Candidates Claim the Lead Even Before Votes Are Tallied
The clashing claims by President Ashraf Ghani and rival Abdullah Abdullah could set up a political crisis, some fear.
Afghanistan Election Draws Low Turnout Amid Taliban Threats
With peace talks on hold, the Taliban have stepped up attacks, and Afghans fear that a bitterly contested presidential election could lead to political paralysis.
Afghanistan Presidential Vote Presses On Despite Concerns About Legitimacy
Accusations of systemic fraud and fears of Taliban threats have compromised an election that is likely to have the fewest voters since the first presidential vote in 2004.
U.S. Cuts $100 Million in Aid to Afghanistan, Citing Government Corruption
The funding cut was announced a week before Afghanistan holds national elections, and in the wake of failed peace talks with the Taliban.
Taliban Make Good on Pledge to Strike Afghan Election Campaign
Two attacks including one at a rally for President Ashraf Ghani killed at least 48 people, less than two weeks before the vote. Mr. Ghani was unhurt.