KABUL - The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) notes yesterday’s announcement of the preliminary results for the country’s 2014 Presidential election run-off.

The Mission further notes that the results are not final and are subject to change, and that it would be premature for either of the candidates to claim victory.

UNAMA encourages the electoral institutions – the Independent Election Commission (IEC) and the Independent Electoral Complaints Commission (IECC) – to demonstrate their commitment to the future of the country by taking the responsibility to fully discharge their mandates while demonstrating the utmost impartiality, transparency and responsibility.

The Mission urges the IEC and IECC to cooperate within the framework of their mandates to conduct additional audits – notably, those supported by both candidates and which would provide for the investigation of ballots from more than 7,000 polling stations – in a rigorous, timely and expeditious manner. Other measures that would enhance the integrity of the electoral process and the legitimacy and acceptance of its outcome should also be considered.

UNAMA reiterates its call for the candidates to exercise restraint and take all steps necessary to control their supporters to prevent them from making any irresponsible statements and from taking steps that could lead to civil disorder and instability.