KABUL - The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) welcomes the appointment of the Media Commission as another key step towards the holding of credible Presidential and Provincial Council elections in April 2014.

The Mission notes that the five members of the Media Commission were nominated by the Board of the Independent Election Commission (IEC) of Afghanistan following a professionally-conducted selection process.

The Media Commission is charged with monitoring the reporting on and fair broadcasting of the electoral campaigns and, within the regulatory framework applying to media coverage during the electoral process, addressing any violations and offences committed by the media.

UNAMA emphasizes the important role the media can play in helping ensure transparency in the upcoming polls, and by promoting public awareness of the electoral process. It also highlights the importance of media outlets having a fair and balanced approach in their reporting on the elections.

Download UNAMA press statement in English