KABUL - Senate Chairman Fazel Hadi Muslimyar on Tuesday confirmed that the Afghan National Security Forces (ANSF) would be in charge of providing security for the upcoming elections, but added that he was concerned about the current state of security.

A number of Senators joined Muslimyar in expressing their concerns about elections security, emphasizing the importance of the elections being held on time and transparently.

The Senate Chairman said Afghanistan has no other option except holding the Presidential elections on time to ensure a peaceful transition of political power as Hamid Karzai steps down next year and the NATO coalition withdraws.

"As representatives of the people, we should put pressure on the government and security institutions to provide acceptable security for the elections and work for transparency," Muslimyar said. "I think there is no alternative for peaceful transition of power to the elections."

A number of senators raised concerns over the ongoing security threats in various regions of the country and warned that credibility and legitimacy of the elections could be harmed unless security is maintained.

"Until peace is maintained in the country, I don't think that a transparent and inclusive election is possible," Senator Khaliq Dad Balaghi said.

Some Senators expressed support for a delay in the elections, though they were a minority.

"I think it would be better to delay the election and extend the current presidency," Senator Hidayatollah Rahayee said.

However, most of those gathered on Tuesday were in clear support of Muslimyar and his stance on the election timeline.

"There is the possibility of some issues coming up the upcoming elections, but we have no other alternative except the elections," Senator Najiba Hussaini said.

The Afghan people will head to the polling booths in less than four months. Yet still major concerns surround security of the elections. (Tolo News)