The Independent Election Commission of Afghanistan (IEC) on Thursday said that more than 500,000 people have registered since the start of voter registration process on April 14. 

Despite a low women turnout, 60,000 to 70,000 people register daily across the country, said IEC commissioner Sayed Hafiz Hashimi. 

According to IEC authorities, from the total 1,419 voter registration centers, 70 centers have remained closed across the country due to insecurity. 

IEC statistics indicate that turnout in the south and southeast regions of Afghanistan has been “quite low”. 

“The concern is that so far women’s turnout in the process is around 24 percent, but their turnout in Kabul is high. In northern provinces, participation of people is also good. Unfortunately, in south and southeast regions, male and female participation is weak,” said Hashimi. 

Meanwhile, well-known athletes, who registered on Thursday, called on government to ensure the safety of voter registration centers so that people can participate in the process without any concern. 

“Athletes have played a good role in supporting national unity. They have always invited people for tolerance and unity,” said MMA fighter Ahmad Wali Hotak. 

“People should come and register and determine their future by their own,” said Afghan free fighter champion Baz Mohammad Mubarez.

“We ask the people to register and participate in the elections and fulfill their responsibility,” said taekwondo athlete Nisar Ahmad Bahawi.

IEC says from the total number of 7,350 polling stations in the country, 948 stations are located in areas under control of militants. 

The commission has scheduled parliamentary and district councils’ elections on October 20.