Afghanistan's elections should be spared serious disruption but an underlying climate of fear has already had a negative impact, a rights group said, cautioning against a reduction of international forces after Sunday's polls.
Afghanistan Election |
While technical preparations had been successful and the polls were likely to go ahead without serious disruption, insurgent attacks could derail voting in some areas, the rights group said.
It noted an "underlying climate of fear among many voters and candidates", especially in remote rural areas.
"It is important not to draw down international troop numbers too quickly after the election," Sam Zarifi, deputy director for Asia of Human Rights Watch, said.
"If there is violence after the elections, it could derail the political process. It is vital international security forces remain."