KABUL - Religious scholars on Wednesday asked people, political parties, civil society organisations and warring parties to participate in the next presidential and provincial council polls to ensure a just political system in the country.

The call came at a meeting jointly organized by the Ministry of Haj and Islamic Affairs, Independent Election Commission (’IEC) and Afghanistan Ulema Council in Kabul. Participants, numbering about 500, issued a declaration that asked all people to vote in the polls.

The scholars called for the armed opposition to shun the insurgency, support the election process and let Afghans exercise their democratic right to vote. IEC was asked to provide facilities for the people, especially women, disabled and minority groups, to participate in the voter registration process.

Emphasizing transparency in the elections, they said: "As religious scholars, we want Afghans to be very careful while casting their votes. We expect you to support an eligible candidate."

Speaking on the occasion, IEC Chairman Fazal Ahmad Manawi stressed religious scholars’ role important in holding transparent polls. Their advice would help eradicate corruption from society, he said. "By actively participating in the elections, we will prove that we are a united nation." (Pajhwok)