On Monday, Afghanistan’s Independent Election Commission (IEC) announced preliminary result of June 14 run-off election. The result puts Ashraf Ghani the runner up of first round of election in the lead with 56.44% and Abdullah Abdullahon second position with 43.56%. Quite amazingly, Ghani’s votes, as compared with the first round, have increased by about 24% while Abdullah’s got around 2% lesser votes. Ghani saw 1137% increase in votes in Wardak, 675% in Kandahar, 364% in Khost, 202% in Paktika, and 313% in Logar. The turnout according to IEC was more than 8 million, although observer groups had even criticized 7 million turnout previously announced by IEC.

Younus Qanooni, 1st Vice President, was among the first ones to condemn announcement of the result. Abdullah’s camp also immediately reacted and said they disapprove the result as the electoral bodies have intentionally not taken any measures to exclude fake votes. Abdullah has accused IEC of organizing a massive fraud in favor of his rival and his team has made public certain evidences including audio recordings in which IEC Chief’s aide gives instructions to others on ballot-stuffing.

Now, a scenario prevails in the country in which both Abdullah and Ghani claim to be the winners. It is feared the condition might lead to a chaotic situation or even return of civil war, if timely measures are not taken.

In a gathering at Loya Jirga Hall in Kabul Abdullah said, “My supporters are expecting me to announce my government.” His supporters who already refer him as elected and legitimate president have staged certain round anti-fraud protests in Kabul. Fortunately, these protests have been peaceful so far. The new instance of Abdullah’s team ‘reform and integrity’ seems to be giving Afghanistan some more time.

U.S. foreign secretary, John Kerry is expected in Kabul in the coming days. His meetings with Afghan stakeholders and the two candidates will be crucial and might lead to a turning point towards resolving the current political deadlock. “I do not want chaos, civil war, conflict or partition of Afghanistan but integrity of this country. What is certain is our win and I will defend your votes to the last drop of my blood,” Abdullah said.

The next few days are critical for Afghanistan’s future. To avoid any possible chaos it is vital for the IEC, President Karzai and the international community to ensure a serious, impartial and transparent probe of ballot boxes. Other possible political solutions can be formation of a coalition government keeping in view the best national interest of the Afghanistan. If electoral bodies cum government continue to act irresponsibly, it will definitely be difficult to avoid a chaotic situation in the country. Such a condition will definitely not be in favor of Afghanistan, region and the world but will aid the insurgent groups such as al Qaida and Taliban.