Since the Independent Election Commission announced April 05, 2014 for the Presidential polls, there have been reactions regarding concerns on low-turnout due to winter. Both elected representatives in parliament and political parties have said it could affect people in far-flung areas where a longer and harsh winter could make it impossible for residents to go to polling stations. Though it will be already spring by April, in many districts of the North and Hazarajat, it would still be extremely cold.

National Coalition Party, one of the main opposition blocs led by Abdullah Abdullah has demanded a change in the date, saying it will limit the campaign period for candidates during winter.

The criticisms inside parliament and from political parties show the lack of coordination and consultation exercised by the Election Commission in the process. When IEC Chief Fazal Ahmad Manawi was asked about the problems of weather for the polling date, he had said it was not their job to take care of nature and constitution did not mention such a thing.

There had been an intentional delay and postponement of the preparations for elections. The April 05 date was announced under public pressure as increasing demands questioned role of current Administration in the delay. So a date was announced in hurry, without proper consultation with political parties, the elected representatives of people and civil society.

It would be responsibility of the Government to provide IEC with sufficient resources for logistical supplies for polling day to far-flung areas when roads will be blocked by heavy snowfall until the end of winter. They will need to use air support. But it would also be a tough challenge for contenders to conduct their campaign during winter.

However, given the IEC will not have any serious logistical hurdles, it will not be a major issue for campaigns of political parties. There are far more other issues related to the polling material, institutional, legal and constitutional lack of clarity on electoral process and political challenges that need to be addressed before 2014.

For instance, MPs have repeatedly asked the Government to submit the draft Electoral Law to the parliament for approval, but there is an intentional delay tactic. Lawmakers have threatened to produce their legislation if the draft law was sent soon. IEC's announcement of the election date is just a single step forward on this issue, there are many other challenges.