Voters weary of Taliban violence

  • 10 years ago
Scenes like this are an everyday sight at hospitals in Kandahar, the birthplace of the Taliban movement.

The planned withdrawal of foreign troops, tribal rivalry and in recent weeks the elections, have given a boost to violence

And civilians are being caught in the crossfire.

Abdul Wali was hoping to vote in the April 5 elections. But can't now after he stepped on a landmine most likely planted by insurgents.

(SOUNDBITE) (Pashto) ABDUL WALI, A LANDMINE VICTIM SAYING:

"I ask the Taliban and the government to solve their issues based on Islamic foundations. I also ask the foreigners and Taliban to stop killing people. We have had enough. We want to have peace in this country not misery."

The Taliban have declared all-out war on the polls, calling it a "Western-backed sham".

Suicide bombers and gunmen attacked an election office last week and today the Election Commission headquarters. It sends a chilling message to voters, which could discourage

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