(MENAFN- Daily Outlook Afghanistan) GARDEZ - Residents ofsoutheastern Paktia province oppose the Independent Election Commission (IEC)decision on taking photographs of female voters on the election day.
Women's Network head ZarghonaHimmat told Pajhwok Afghan News fingerprints of women should be taken insteadof photos.
'Women, especially inPakhtun-inhabited areas, will not allow anyone to take their photos, she said.
Hakima, a resident of SyedKaram district, also expressed concern over the IEC decision and said it wouldhamper women's participation in the election.
She said fewer women might takepart in this month's presidential election because of the photo condition.
Gulistan Zadran, in charge ofMilli Mahaz party, said the decision should be reviewed because taking women'sphotos would not be easy.
Arab Gul Hussain, a religiousscholar, said participation in the election was significant for a stable futureand all should take part in the national process.
Hussain said the governmentshould pave the way for greater voter participation instead of depriving womenof their right. Other resident held similar views.
Naqibullah Haidari, provincialhead of IEC, told Pajhwok taking female voters' photos had been suggested bypolitical parties for transparent elections.
Haidari acknowledged the movewould negatively impact women's participation in the ballot.
'Without any doubt, takingwomen's photos will bring transparency but will also affect voter turnout, headded. (Pajhwok)
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