KABUL (The Killid) – Although the Independent Election Commission has set a budget of 440 million Afghanis for Presidential Candidates’ campaign; but a number of candidates say it is too high and they cannot afford and spend that amount.
A Presidential candidate Noorur Rahman Lewal expressing concern on high budget for campaigning, said on Monday that spending 440m on electoral campaign is exorbitant and that eliminates space for a clear competition among candidates.
Meanwhile, a number of economic analysts said spending on presidential candidates’ campaigns in the country is extreme, which has a negative impact on society.
“While the country’s economy is not good, the enormous expenditures of presidential candidates are a worrying challenge,” said Zabiullah Ahmadzai, an economic analyst.
Presidential candidates can avoid excessive spending and use some of this money in other sectors that benefits people, he added.
However, the IEC said the campaign’s estimated budget is accurate and realistic, considering all the aspects, including 3,000 polling centers and nominees’ observers assigned.
Zabiullah Sadat, one of the press members of the IEC, said, “an estimated 440 million Afghanis for presidential candidates’ campaigns are set to prevent violations of the law and for candidates to send their message to the public.”
This comes after Afghan presidential elections campaign has officially begun as of Saturday July 28, 2019, providing candidates 60 days to fight the political battle in their favor.
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Fereshta Hashimi of The Killid Group has contributed to this report.
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