As the presidential elections draws closer and security maintenance is considered a major issue, President Hamid Karzai once again asked armed opponents to take part in the elections. During a press conference held in Kabul on Saturday, President Karzai said, “I ask our brothers who hold membership of the Taliban or Hezb-e-Islami and who are currently living in foreign countries to repatriate and take part in the elections. They may vote for any of the candidates they favour so that our country may join the road to peace and prosperity.”

Mr. Karzai also assured all the presidential and provincial candidates of transparency and fairness during the upcoming elections. On the issue of meetings between the US ambassador and other presidential candidates Mr. Karzai said that he was not concerned about the meetings rather, he maintained the government is concerned about Afghan politicians disclosing their future plans to foreign delegates. He asked the international community not to interfere in the election process.

Mr. Karzai said, “I urge foreign countries that have all the resources, personnel and other facilities in Afghanistan not to behave in a way to create suspicion among the populace. They should not interfere in Afghanistan’s internal matters and must allow the Afghans choose their leader. I assure the United States and the international community that whatever change may occur in the administration of the country, Afghanistan will remain dedicated to its assistance to counter-terrorism and counter-narcotics campaigns.”

While addressing his coalition with some political figures, Mr. Karzai accused some western countries of pursuing inconsistent policies towards Afghanistan. He also charged the western media with defaming prominent personalities of the country.