Kabul: Several issues were at the top of Afghans’ minds as they voted in high numbers to elect President Hamid Karzai’s successor despite a threat issued by the Taliban. High among them is deteriorating security as the country undergoes its first democratic transition of power in history. Afghan President Hamid Karzai is barred by the Constitution from seeking a third term in office. The most often mentioned issues include
SECURITY
A spike in attacks ahead of the elections has highlighted the poor state of security in Afghanistan. While most people said it has hardened their determination to go to the polls, fear dominates their lives and the lives of their children. Security has been turned over to the Afghan National Security Forces ahead of the final withdrawal of US and Nato combat troops at the end of this year. Many candidates say that improving security is the top concern.
Corruption
According to Transparency International, Afghanistan is one of the most corrupt countries in the world, along with North Korea and Somalia. According to most Afghans, corruption seeps into every facet of their life. The most immediate worry of many Afghans is that fraud will again mar polling results.
Economy
Lack of jobs and widespread poverty has most Afghans wondering where billions of dollars in international aid that poured into Afghanistan after the Taliban collapse have gone.
