Voting begins for #AfghanElection

Posted by Craig Kanalley on 8/19/09 • Categorized as Asia, Elections

People around the world have their eyes set on Afghanistan, as voting has officially begun for the the Afghan Presidential Election this morning. Many are hoping for a peaceful day despite repeated threats from the Taliban to disrupt the process.

The capital city of Kabul has been attacked twice in recent days, with the last attacks taking place on Saturday. Those in Kabul today are particularly vigilant and providing updates via Twitter. A few have said that there was a possible explosion within the last hour (but it has not yet been verified).

ashrafghani (Kabul, Afghanistan) Afghans, let those who resort 2 violence & hatred know that we no longer tolerate war. Go out and vote and take what’s rightfuly yours! 19 Aug 2009 from web

jimmichaels (Kabul, Afghanistan) Lots of sounds of security, as polls are readied for opening. Helicopters flying overhead and police vehicles rushing around streets. 20 Aug 2009 from web

itamena (Kabul, Afghanistan) Just heard a blast…hope ya’ll are safe. ANx 20 Aug 2009 from txt

Orzala (Kabul, Afghanistan) Heard a strong explosion, may be somewhere around Darulaman or west KBL, but no media reporting…hope it is not censured due to govt order! 20 Aug 2009 from web

The relative silence so far has been a good sign, but the day is young. The Pajhwok Afghan News Agency is providing live tweets with updates on the election from across the country.

pajhwok (Afghanistan) Polling stations not open yet in Zaranj, Nimroz because no ballots have been delivered #afghan09 20 Aug 2009 from TweetDeck

pajhwok (Afghanistan) Kandahar streets are empty, little activity #afghan09 20 Aug 2009 from TweetDeck

pajhwok (Afghanistan) Voting is normal in Taliban stronghold of Khost province, good turnout #afghan09 20 Aug 2009 from TweetDeck

pajhwok (Afghanistan) Rocket attacks in Logar province this morning but no casualties, voting is going on normally 20 Aug 2009 from TweetDeck

pajhwok (Afghanistan) More precincts reporting problems with machines used to validate ballots… story in one hour 20 Aug 2009 from TweetDeck