kabul

Today Fazal Ahmad Manawi, the chairman of Afghanistan's Independent Election Commission, held a midday press conference to discuss the situation on the Election Day so far. Our notes follow:

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In today’s news: Afghan voters go to the polls. A rocket attack has been reported in Kabul and some attacks on polling centers in Herat, Ghazni, and Badakshan. Pres. Karzai cast his vote and calls on Afghans to turn out despite acknowledging that there will be problems. The Taliban reportedly kidnapped two candidates and 18 polling center and campaign workers Friday.

In today’s news: The campaign period has ended for Afghanistan elections and preparations are underway for the vote on Saturday. The UN has evacuated about a third of its permanent international workforce and much of its staff will be on lockdown for the election day, The Guardian reports. A large protest in Kabul against cancelled Quran-burnings turned violent with over 35 police officers and a dozen civilians reportedly wounded. The WSJ reports on the latest incarnation of local defense militias. Pres. Karzai visited Pakistan where he met with Pres. Zardari and pledged cooperation between the two countries.

As the race for Afghanistan’s parliament enters its final days, Afghan2010.com hits the streets of Kabul to find out what people think of the elections. Will they be voting? Are they happy with the field of candidates? And what do they hope the elections will bring? Watch the video below to find out what Kabulis are saying.