Originally posted by the Voice of America.
Voice of America content is produced by the Voice of America,
a United States federal government-sponsored entity, and is in
the public domain.


Afghans Go to the Polls Amid Taliban Threats

Associated Press

   KABUL, AFGHANISTAN - Afghans headed to the polls Saturday to elect a
   new president amid high security and Taliban threats to disrupt the
   elections, with the rebels warning citizens to stay home or risk being
   hurt.

   Still at some polling stations in the capital voters lined up even
   before the centers opened, while in others election workers had yet to
   arrive by poll opening time.

   Imam Baksh, who works as a security guard, said he wasn't worried about
   his safety as he stood waiting to mark his ballot, wondering who he
   would vote for.

   "All of them have been so disappointing for our country," he said.

   The leading contenders are incumbent President Ashraf Ghani and his
   partner in the 5-year-old unity government, Abdullah Abdullah, who
   already alleges power abuse by his opponent. Cameras crowded both men
   as they cast their vote, with Ghani telling voters they too had a
   responsibility to call out instances of fraud.

.