New Commissioners in the Independent Election Commission (IEC) have promised to carry out their duties with absolute independence. Najibullah Ahmadzai, head of IEC, reiterated the new members were selected through a transparent process of screening by a selection committee, and names being sent to the national unity government. The new commissioners said they are not affiliated to any political group or party and will fulfill their duties according to the law. Najibullah Ahmadzai promised the voters’ list would be updated, polling centres identified and overall reforms completed but did not specify a timeframe for overdue elections to the Wolesi Jirga (lower house of parliament). Previous IEC commissioners were dismissed before the end of their tenure for alleged illegal acts. Nahid Farid, a Member of Parliament (MP), said the new commissioners should maintain a good reputation. Some MPs have expressed reservations about the selection of new commissioners. Ali Akbar Qasimi, MP, said he did not think there was sufficient change in the selection process and the new appointees may not discharge their responsibilities satisfactorily. It is feared political parties are likely to meddle in the elections notwithstanding the appointment of new commissioners.
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