Following the presidential election last October, the establishment of an independent body to organize and oversee free elections in Afghanistan is a major step in the implementation of the new Afghan Constitution.

High participation by men and women in the first presidential election made it clear that Afghan people have embraced the principle of popular election of their leaders. The Commission will serve to make sure that this becomes a permanent feature of Afghanistan’s political life.

Finally, the establishment of the Commission marks the formal beginning of the process leading to the upcoming parliamentary and local elections. In consultation with political parties, the Commission will make a key contribution to establishing the basic parameters of the election, including the allocation of seats, the registration of candidates and the most appropriate timing and modalities for the elections themselves.

UNAMA is committed to provide all possible support to the successful fulfillment of this mandate.

Kabul, 27 January 2005

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