Election Security Tightened in the North
The risk of a raid by Taleban forces is seen as remote in northern Afghanistan, but no one is taking any chances.
18 Nov 05
Afghanistan
All Quiet as Western City Heads for Poll
Candidates in Herat claim some of their rivals are seeking to gain unfair advantage, but campaigning has generally been free of intimidation.
18 Nov 05
Beyond the Ballot Box
Continuing bloodshed and war of words spells little hope for peace after the September 18 poll.
18 Nov 05
Return of a Power From the Past
The return of controversial general Shahnawaz Tanai on the eve of elections stirs memories and raises questions over links to Pakistan.
18 Nov 05
Parties Fume on the Sidelines
Political groups have been frozen out of the parliamentary election campaign, and many say it is part of a master-plan to weaken the legislature.
18 Nov 05
Voices From the Polls
A mixture of confusion and apathy, not fear of violence, seems to have been the dominant mood among voters on this election day.
18 Nov 05
Dreams of Democracy
Mixed hopes and fears as Afghanistan holds its first democratic parliamentary elections in more than three decades.
18 Nov 05
Parwan's On-Off Candidate
Right up to election day, it has been unclear whether one popular candidate is actually in the running.
18 Nov 05
Uninsured Drivers Add to Road Chaos
Motorists driving new cars are now supposed to be insured, but the system is barely working.
18 Nov 05
Historic Vote Passes Off Quietly
Aside from isolated violent incidents, most of the noise came from the patriotic music played to stir the electorate – plus a bit of grumbling from the voters themselves.
18 Nov 05
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