Summary
KABUL -- Millions of Afghans defied threats Thursday to cast ballots in the country's second national elections since Taliban rule, but turnout appeared weaker this time because of continuing violence, fear and disenchantment. In much of the Taliban's southern strongholds, many people did not dare to vote, bolstering the hopes of President Hamid Karzai's chief rival.
At least 26 people were killed in election-related violence, fewer than had been feared.See the full content of this document
Extract
Fraud Allegations Plague Vote
Officials began counting millions of ballots as soon as the polls closed at 5 p.m. after a one-hour extension. First preliminary results weren't expected for several days, and some major candidates were already alleging fraud.
A top election official, Zekria Barakzai, told The Associated Press that he esti...See the full content of this document
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