Government of Afghanistan Concerned by the US Envoy Visits with Candidates

Humayun Hamidzada, spokesperson for President Karzai voiced concern Tuesday over visits by US Ambassador of some presidential challengers for Afghanistan elections.

Speaking during his weekly press briefing, Hamidzada said, "If the visits are meant to discuss the process of elections to ensure there is transparency in the election, Afghan Government has no problem with it, but if the visits are to support the programmes and the election agenda of particular candidates, we consider this a violation of Afghan sovereignty and see it an interference in the internal affairs of Afghanistan."

Hamidzada added that the concern is already communicated to the US Embassy through the Foreign Ministry so that such visits are avoided in future.

In response to another question, he said, “President Karzai has issued a decree that says no government official has the right to use any government resources for or against any candidate.”

He added there were some reports of governors including of Balkh to campaign in favor of particular contenders, but is not yet proven, if proven, this is a clear violation of President’s decree. He said these reports of violation are being investigated by the relevant authorities.