Statement by the High Representative/Vice-President Federica Mogherini on the Presidential election in Afghanistan
Brussels, 30/09/2019 – 13:15, UNIQUE ID: 190930_8
The Afghan Presidential election that took place on 28 September has proven once again the commitment of the Afghan people to furthering the democratic path of their country, even if this meant putting their lives in danger.
Our thoughts are with the families of those killed and with those who were injured in attacks that attempted to dissuade voters through violence and intimidation, both on Election Day and in the run-up.
The legitimacy of the final result will now be linked to the ability of the Afghan electoral management bodies to fulfil their mandate impartially, efficiently and transparently and in full respect of the constitution, electoral laws and procedures, including with regard to any complaints and appeal proceedings.
We expect that the candidates exercise restraint, await the official announcement of preliminary and final results by the Independent Electoral Commission and submit any evidence based complaints through the established institutional complaints mechanism, the Electoral Complaints Commission.
The European Union remains committed to supporting the Afghan constitutional order and the electoral process as a way to ensure institutional continuity and legitimacy of Afghanistan’s political institutions.
The European Union will continue to work with all Afghan stakeholders, along with our international partners, for democracy, peace, stability and development in Afghanistan, for the sake of the Afghans, of the region and of the whole world