Afghanistan- Polling place survey in Paktia almost complete: IEC

(MENAFN- Pajhwok Afghan News) GARDEZ (Pajhwok): A survey to identify areas to be used as polling stations for next year's parliamentary elections in southeastern Paktia province has been almost completed, an official said on Thursday.

Independent Election Commission () chief for Paktia, Zahir Akbari, told reporters that the survey had been 98 percent completed in Gardez, the provincial capital, and 13 districts.

'Polling stations which were situated in private areas have been transferred to secure and public places in line with IEC directives,' said Akbari.

He showed reporters the use of technology and GPS system and said the facilities would help ensure transparency in elections.

He said security institutions had been informed about their concerns. 'Transparent election is very important and the IEC is committed to a fair vote.'

The long-delayed and district council elections are due in July next year.

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