KABUL - The US President Barak Obama has had separate telephonic conversations with the rival Afghan presidential candidates on Sunday, urging them to reach an understanding.

Representatives of both electoral camps have confirmed that Ashraf Ghania and Abdullah Abdullah spoke with the US President this evening. It is hoped that this would break the ice and both would intensify efforts to reach an agreement.

Muhammad Tahir Zoher, representative of Ghani’s camp has said that the US president urged the front runner to abide by the deal brokered by the US Secretary of State John Kerry. He added that Mr Obama reiterated his support to resolve the crisis in accordance to the Afghanistan Constitution.

Zoher said Abdullah’s camp wanted the would-be Chief Executive to be the Head of Cabinet as well, which he said was against the constitution. A meeting between the candidates is scheduled for tomorrow, he added.

According to a deal brokered by John Kerry, the presidential candidates have agreed to create a new post of the Chief Executive for the losing candidate.

Syed Agha Hussain, representative of Abdullah’s camp, meanwhile has claimed that the US president has expressed support for a unity government having representation of both the electoral camps. He added that Mr Obama has offered to send the Secretary of State to Kabul to resolve the latest impasse. 

He added that Abdullah’s electoral team has delayed announcement of its final viewpoint on the situation for one day after consultation with the international community. (Pajhwok)