Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Rep. Ed Royce (R-CA), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following statement on Afghanistan’s presidential runoff election:
 
“I started off with the hope that this election would allow Afghans to turn-over a new leaf.  Now I am deeply concerned that the allegations of fraud surrounding this election could spill into sectarian violence – reversing what progress had been made in security, education, and the economy.  It’s now incumbent on all sides to help restore confidence in its electoral system to ensure a legitimate and credible transfer of power.  The Afghan government risks undermining the legitimacy of the electoral system and losing the support of the international community if it fails to take immediate action to address irregularities.  President Karzai bears special responsibility.  A widely-accepted result can still be achieved if all parties refrain from violence and allow the audit process to play out with the support of international observers.”

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