Afghanistan: Female Elites Back Abdullah

A number of elite Afghan women and female legislators announced their support for presidential runoff candidate Abdullah Abdullah on Thursday.

Among the prominent women who backed Abdullah was the running mate of former presidential hopeful Dawoud Sultanzoi, Ms. Kazimia Mohaqeq.

"As a university lecturer and as a student of law, I announce my endorsement of Abdullah," she said on Thursday.

The endorsements come at a critical time in the election process, with just over a week left until voters head to the polls and choose between Abdullah and Ashraf Ghani Ahmadzai.

"Today, we the Afghan women reiterate our promise to vote to Dr. Abdullah and will show up on June 14," MP Fawzia Kofi said.

Abdullah welcomed the endorsements and promised to promote the role of women in the next government if he is elected. He also discussed combating violence against women.

"The protection of women's rights marks on of our top working priorities, and we will combat violence against women practically, not just in rhetoric," Abdullah said.

Additionally, the Badakhshan People's Council announced support for Abdullah on Thursday. Addressing the council at a gathering, Abdullah pledged to help reconstruct and develop Badakhshan.

On Thursday, Abdullah also attended the 3rd Commemoration Ceremony of slain General Dawoud Dawoud and Shah Jahan Noori, the former Takhar Police Chief. At the ceremony, he spoke out against ethnic politics in the election.

"No one can get votes from the people under the pretext of ethnicity," Abdullah said.

His comments come just days after a top member of Ashraf Ghani's campaign team demanded voters' support on the basis of ethnicity.

Abdullah also called on the government and electoral bodies to strive for a transparent and credible election process.

Only five days remain until the end of the campaigning period for this year's runoff.