Four election workers kidnapped in Afghanistan, says official

Published March 13, 2014
Sareer Ahmed Barmal, a commissioner with the Independent Election Commission said  no one has taken responsibility for their abduction or demanded a ransom.  — File photo
Sareer Ahmed Barmal, a commissioner with the Independent Election Commission said no one has taken responsibility for their abduction or demanded a ransom. — File photo

KABUL: An Afghan election commission official says four election coordinators were kidnapped in Afghanistan's restive Nangarhar province, which borders neighboring Pakistan.

Sareer Ahmed Barmal, a commissioner with the Independent Election Commission, told The Associated Press on Thursday that the four men were taken a day earlier and no one has taken responsibility for their abduction or demanded a ransom.

Barmal says area elders have been meeting in an attempt to discover the identities of the kidnappers in order to negotiate the release of the men.

On Monday, the Taliban threatened violence ahead of Afghanistan's April 5 presidential elections, warning Afghans to stay away from the polls and promising attacks against election workers and Afghan security forces protecting them.

Opinion

Editorial

United stance
Updated 13 Nov, 2024

United stance

It would've been better if the OIC-Arab League summit had announced practical measures to punish Israel.
Unscheduled visit
13 Nov, 2024

Unscheduled visit

AN IMF mission is in Islamabad for unusual, early talks with the Pakistani authorities as the lender seems worried...
Bara’s businesswomen
13 Nov, 2024

Bara’s businesswomen

BARA tehsil, a region typically known for its security challenges and socioeconomic problems, can now boast the...
System failure
Updated 12 Nov, 2024

System failure

Relevant institutions often treat right to internet connectivity with the same disdain as they do civil and political rights.
Narrowing the gap
12 Nov, 2024

Narrowing the gap

PERHAPS a pat on the back is in order for the ECP. Together with Nadra, it has made visible efforts to reduce...
Back on their feet
12 Nov, 2024

Back on their feet

A STIRRING comeback in the series has ended Pakistan’s 22-year wait for victory against world champions Australia....