SG/SM/10109
AFG/278
19 September 2005

Secretary-General Congratulates Afghan Voters on Participation in Legislative Polls

NEW YORK, 18 September (UN Headquarters) -- The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan:

The Secretary-General congratulates the women and men of Afghanistan on their enthusiastic participation in today's poll for the National Assembly and Provincial Councils.

In the days ahead, counting will take place, followed by a challenge period and the certification of results.  The Secretary-General urges the candidates and their supporters to cooperate fully with the electoral authorities to ensure that the process unfolds in a peaceful and orderly manner.

Today's achievement shows once again the clear determination of the Afghan people to pursue the peaceful and democratic development of their nation.

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