GARDEZ - Residents of southeastern Paktia province oppose the Independent Election Commission (IEC) decision on taking photographs of female voters on the election day.
Women’s Network head Zarghona Himmat told Pajhwok Afghan News fingerprints of women should be taken instead of photos.
“Women, especially in Pakhtun-inhabited areas, will not allow anyone to take their photos,” she said.
Hakima, a resident of Syed Karam district, also expressed concern over the IEC decision and said it would hamper women’s participation in the election.
She said fewer women might take part in this month’s presidential election because of the photo condition.
Gulistan Zadran, in charge of Milli Mahaz party, said the decision should be reviewed because taking women’s photos would not be easy.
Arab Gul Hussain, a religious scholar, said participation in the election was significant for a stable future and all should take part in the national process.
Hussain said the government should pave the way for greater voter participation instead of depriving women of their right. Other resident held similar views.
Naqibullah Haidari, provincial head of IEC, told Pajhwok taking female voters’ photos had been suggested by political parties for transparent elections.
Haidari acknowledged the move would negatively impact women’s participation in the ballot.
“Without any doubt, taking women’s photos will bring transparency but will also affect voter turnout,” he added.  (Pajhwok)