Jan Kubiš, the United Nations Special Representative for Afghanistan, on Thursday night told the presidential candidates that they would have “one or two days” to finalize an agreement before the results of the election are certified.
“If there is no agreement by the time of the certification of results, new dynamics will be set in play with the a potential to trigger further uncertainty, even the risk of conflict,” Kubis said. “The time remaining is now short and by this I mean one or two days.” Abdullah Abdullah’s camp previously cautioned election officials from releasing the results before a deal is made.
The United Nations, the U.S. and President Hamid Karzai have spearheaded a number of separate yet related efforts to get the candidates to put aside their differences. But the presidential hopefuls are said to remain in disagreement over a handful of issues, including the powers afforded to the chief executive position.
On Thursday, Kubiš emphasized the importance of avoiding conflict and creating a national unity government, “a government that both presidential candidates have committed to.” Indeed, the framework for the power-sharing arrangement was signed onto by both men back in early August when U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry flew to Kabul and brokered talks between them.
“All other options are either accompanied by heavy risks or undermine the country’s constitutional framework, both candidates have previously committed to the concept of such an administration and to abide by the election results subject to an audit process,” Kubiš said.
The UN having overseen the vote auditing process, which was completed days ago, Kubiš acknowledged that there was in fact massive fraud in the election.
Dr. Rangin Dadfar Spanta, the National Security Advisor, has also weighed in on the stalemate and urged the candidates to reach an agreement soon. “Unfortunately, the election process is delayed and the people are worried,” Spanta said.
The Independent Election Commission (IEC) warned last week that it would release the results whether an agreement between the candidates was made or not. Though it would appear the two camps were afforded more time this week, given Kubiš’ remarks, it is unlikely they will get much more.