Statement by the Press Secretary/Director-General for Press and Public Relations, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, on the Presidential and Provincial Council Elections in the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan

August 21, 2009
Japanese

The Presidential elections and Provincial Council elections were held in the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan on August 20. Although there were incidents to disturb the elections in some areas, the polling process was successfully carried out as planned in most regions, with the support of the international community and through the efforts of the Government of Afghanistan. The Government of Japan expresses its respect towards the passion and bravery of the citizens of Afghanistan who went to the polls despite the harsh security situation, as well as towards the Government of Afghanistan and staff of the United Nations and other organizations who supported the holding of the elections.
Japan condemns the terrorist activities and election obstructions that occurred in some areas. Japan expresses its deepest condolences for those who have been killed, and to the families of the victims. Japan also expresses its heartfelt sympathy toward the injured and prays for their earliest recovery.
Japan dispatched election observation missions to these elections. Japan expects appropriate counting and tallying of votes and will continue to carefully watch the results.

(Reference) Overview of the Presidential and Provincial Council elections

Principal schedule (based on the schedule of the announcement by the Independent Election Commission)

June 16-August 17: Campaign period
August 20: Election day (the Provincial Council elections were also held on this day)
Around August 25: Announcement of preliminary tallies/totals of votes for the Presidential Election
September 17: Confirmation and announcement of election results

(If the top Presidential candidate does not receive a majority of valid votes, a runoff election will be held between the top two candidates.)

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