PUL-I-KHUMRI (SW) – The growing presence of the Taliban in Baghlan province has limited the electoral activities of female candidates for the forthcoming Wolesi Jirga (lower house) elections.
One of the female candidates, Humera Kohzaad, told Salam Watandar the insecurities have forced the candidates to avoid travelling to districts in the province. Khadija Yaqeen, head of the directorate of women affairs, has confirmed there are many impediments in this regard. She added the female candidates in particular are afraid to campaign for the WJ elections.
Meanwhile, the provincial police headquarters has assured the candidates of full security. Waheedullah Nizami, director security in Baghlan, said the security forces are well-prepared to ensure safety of the candidates. He said the police force is ready to guard all 88 candidates and 875 polling stations.
There are 11 female candidates competing for two WJ seats reserved for Baghlan.
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