KABUL - Dr. Ashraf Ghani Ahmadzai on Monday took oath as Afghanistan’s new president, succeeding Hamid Karzai.

Chief Justice Abdul Salam Azimi administered oath to the Ahmadzai, a former finance minister, at the Presidential Palace.

Soon after being sworn, Ahmadzai After administered oath to Abdullah as chief executive. Eng. Mohammad Khan and Haafghanistanji Mohammad Mohaqiq were sworn in as Abdullah’s assistants.

Vice-Presidents Gen. Abdur Rashid Dostum and Sarwar Danish took oath from Ahmadzai. They pledged to defend the national interest and Afghanistan’s territorial integrity.

A security blanket has been thrown around the capital for the important event, which will take place at the Presidential Palace.

Security checks and vehicle searches have been enhanced, with law-enforcement personnel guarding key areas. 

Up to 1,400 people, including 200 international figures, attended the ceremony. (Pajhwok)