KABUL - A group of more than 20 Afghan civil society organizations Wednesday urged the Afghan government not to allow human rights violators to participate in the upcoming elections.

"We are concerned that insurgents and those who committed crimes against humanity may have a role in the elections. The government should have a specific strategy to identify them," said Ajmal Ballochzada, a civil society activist.

The activists also urged presidential candidates to select a woman as one of their two deputies.

"In previous governments, the role of women was not so bold, but we urge the upcoming presidential candidates to choose a woman as one of their two vice presidents," activist Humaira Aqeel said.

The activists also called for a stronger presence of women in the Independent Election Commission, which could improve election transparency. (Tolo News)