The second-ever presidential election was held in Afghanistan today. With lead-up to it characterized by spotty campaigning, Taliban intimidation and a generous dose of apathy, expectations weren’t high.
Supporters at a campaign rally in Kabul for presidential candidate, Dr. Abdullah Abdullah.
Turn-out, at least in Kabul, was sporadic and low. Many people just weren’t prepared to risk their lives for a change they don’t see coming. As a result, no one among the front-running three or four candidates will probably receive 50 percent of the vote needed to win in the first round. Consensus on the streets of the capital has it that a second go at president-making is surely in the cards – a possible month down the road.
Afghans are a patient lot, though. They’ve been waiting for something more and better in their lives for the past 30 years. Who knows – Inshallah – this next 5-year government may just be it.
A villager in Nuristan Province displays his voter registration card.
Photojournalist David Bathgate teaches an online course in photojournalism at The Compelling Image.
