Ashraf Ghani sworn in for second term as Afghanistan's President

Ashraf Ghani has been sworn in for second term as President of Afghanistan following a months-long political crisis due to controversy over election results. Ghani was trying to broker a deal with his rival Abdullah Abdullah who cried foul over results and threatened to form a parallel government.

Last month, Independent Election Commission (IEC) declared incumbent Ghani as winner of presidential elections. According to IEC, Ghani secured 50.64 per cent of total votes polled, estimated as more than 1.8 million, and Abdullah got 39.52 per cent of votes. 

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However, Abdullah accused Ghani of securing a win through voter fraud and refused to accept final results. He also claimed of establishing an “inclusive government” which caused immense worry for an alrey fragile democracy. Abdullah’s separate claim to power has created a fear of Taliban gaining ground in a political vacuum, especially when US forces have signed a deal to withdraw grually.

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'Fake and std'

Taliban has also deunced results calling election “fake and std”. Zabihullah Mujahid, a spokesperson of Taliban, said in a statement that it rejects “meaningless appointment” and considers it a failed effort at “throwing dust” in eyes of nation.

“Just as anuncing Ashraf Ghani a president under cover of fake elections is unlawful and has legal basis, it is also in conflict with contents of ongoing peace process while keeping in mind current sensitive circumstances of Afghan issue,” statement re.

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